SAGA Chapters
How to Start a Chapter
If you don't have a local SAGA chapter nearby, we encourage you to consider starting a new chapter of SAGA. An informational packet on how to start a new SAGA chapter is available by contacting the Chapter Coordinator at chapter@smocking.org. The packet will be sent to you via mail upon providing the Chapter Coordinator with a mailing address. It only takes 3 people interested in smocking, needlework, and/or heirloom sewing to start a chapter.
There are many SAGA Members-At-Large (members who are not affiliated with a local chapter) throughout the world and may be some in your local area just waiting to get together and share their passion for needlework. You will need to find a place to meet (local fabric shop, library, church), choose a name, elect officers and agree to accept the SAGA bylaws. There's a minimum of paperwork--filling out an application form and mailing it to the Chapter Coordinator with a $35.00 application check payable to SAGA. Once you return the application form and payment, you will then be sent your chapter charter to sign and a chapter notebook. We will also help you apply for your tax ID number from the IRS.
We have a national board of directors and several committees of dedicated people helping to guide and direct the members and chapters. We are available to answer your questions and help your chapter grow. Local chapters are associated with a nationally recognized name in the field of smocking and needlework preservation and education. Your chapter will be listed on the SAGA website as well.
We have the IRS status as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. All members of a local chapter must belong to the national Smocking Arts Guild of America (according to SAGA bylaws).