Under the umbrella of all that the amazing Jules Mercer and her team have brought to Tam Junction over the years, a very much related group – the Mercery, a vibrant new sewing community offering classes and workshops at Vintage Ruse on Shoreline – is introducing itself to the broader community. They are also in the process of launching a fabric and notions store.
The Mercery was founded with a simple goal: use sewing as a medium to bring people together, educate, and care for the environment. Through workshops, skill-sharing, collaborations, and events we aim to teach participants practical, lifelong skills, foster an inclusive and supportive community, and promote sustainable practices. We are committed to reducing textile waste and conserving resources by repurposing used garments and giving new life to fabrics or deadstock destined for landfills.
We offer classes for all ages and skill levels- focusing on Marin County youth. In Marin County, there is a pressing need for youth programs to address the growing teen mental health crisis. Engaging young people in creative activities offers a significant opportunity for self-expression and emotional processing, which are crucial for mental well-being. By participating in skill-building artistic programs, they not only acquire practical skills but also gain a sense of accomplishment and confidence. At a time when mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent, promoting well-being through art is a powerful tool for fostering healthy, balanced, and confident young individuals.
In addition to our youth, including Seniors in our program provides a valuable opportunity for this often-overlooked demographic to engage in creative and therapeutic activities. Sewing helps Seniors maintain mental stimulation, enhance fine motor skills, and combat isolation by creating a sense of community and shared purpose.
The Mercery provides a constructive and supportive environment where participants can channel their energy, express their emotions, and connect with others. We are committed to removing financial barriers to ensure that everyone, regardless of their economic situation, can participate in our program. By offering subsidized and free classes to those in need, we aim to address disparities in access to creative opportunities, empowering underserved individuals with the confidence and abilities to thrive.
To achieve this we need the support of our community! We are a dedicated non-profit seeking both monetary and in-kind support:
Financial contributions help us provide subsidized and free memberships to those in need, bridging opportunity gaps in Marin County. Funds also support essential program costs, including materials, equipment, venue, and facilitator fees, ensuring the long-term success and quality of our offerings.
We welcome in-kind donations of gently used sewing machines, fabric, and other sewing supplies. We also invite volunteers as sewing instructors or mentors, or collaborate with us on workshops or events. Additionally, you can sponsor specific program aspects, such as materials for workshops or classes like our prom dress or Halloween design sessions.
Your support will have an immediate and meaningful impact on individuals in our Marin County community. To donate please do so through our fiscal sponsor Marinlink, QR code below. To find out more about our programs and to sign up please check our Instagram:: @mercerymarin
MarinLink, Inc., a 501[c] 3 organization is the project’s fiscal sponsor. EIN # 20-0879422