In an inspiring and unique collaboration, Watertown’s Sword in Stone tattoo shop held a fundraiser to benefit the Flower Memorial Library. What initially seemed like a regular tattoo day quickly turned into something much more meaningful, as all proceeds from the tattoos went directly toward supporting the library’s ambitious plans for a new “maker space.”
The idea for the fundraiser came from Caitlin, one of the co-owners of Sword in Stone, who reached out to library director Suzie Renzi-Falge with a generous proposal to use the shop’s services for a good cause. “We’d really love to do this for the library,” Caitlin told Renzi-Falge, and from that moment, the wheels were set in motion.
For just $70, tattoo enthusiasts could select from a curated series of flash designs that paid homage to the library and its history. Some of the tattoos were inspired by the library’s iconic ironwork and laurel symbols, while others drew from personal connections to the library itself. Renzi-Falge, a longtime supporter and director of the library, even got a pair of tattoos herself, featuring designs that represented the library’s legacy. “I got one that is an iron piece from the library, and one that is a laurel from the library,” she said, adding a personal touch to the fundraiser.
The event was an overwhelming success. On Saturday, the shop was so inundated with tattoo appointments that some had to be rescheduled for Sunday. It was clear that the community’s love for the library—and for tattoos—made for a perfect combination.
The money raised will go toward the library’s planned “maker space,” a versatile, hands-on area designed to give the public access to a variety of tools and resources. The maker space will feature sewing machines, 3D printers, and even a learning kitchen for instructional cooking classes. The space is part of the library’s ongoing effort to evolve beyond its traditional role as a place for books and reading, turning it into a hub for creative learning and innovation.
Tattoos inspired by the library were particularly popular, as many participants had personal memories tied to the building. Jonell Michael-Houppert, a local resident, chose a design based on the library’s railings. “Personally, I’ve got many fond memories going there as a child with my family. I was actually married at the library in 2017, and my best friend is the library director,” she shared, highlighting the deep personal connection many community members have with the library.
With the funds expected to exceed $5,000, this event marks a significant step toward the realization of the maker space. The fundraiser not only helped the library raise money but also strengthened the bond between the community and the library, with tattoos serving as a permanent reminder of both the library’s history and its exciting future.
As Suzie Renzi-Falge put it, “It’s a big win for the maker space.” The tattoos will surely serve as cherished mementos, both personal and communal, of an effort that will leave a lasting impact on the Flower Memorial Library and the town of Watertown.
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