The Craftcation Buddy Program
Info & Application

Even the most confident Craftcationer can feel just a *little* bit shy or anxious when walking into a big group of new people – even when everyone there has a love of crafting! 
 

We believe that the connections that are created at Craftcation are what make it so special – and that’s where the Buddy Program comes in. Whether you’re attending Craftcation for the first time, or just enjoy making those new connections, our Buddy Program means that you have at least one other Craftcationer that you’ve “met” prior to arrival. 

 

We aim to match attendees based on several criteria, including craft interests, geographic location, conference goals and personality type (although letting chaos choose is also an option). We also match first time attendees with alumni whenever possible. 

 
But the Buddy Program isn’t just for first timers! We encourage all attendees – no matter HOW many Craftcations you’ve attended – to sign up! 

BUDDY PROGRAM DEADLINES

ROUND 1

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

DECEMBER 31, 2026

MATCHES SENT BY:

JANUARY 17, 2027

ROUND 2

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

MARCH 14, 2027

MATCHES SENT BY:

MARCH 28, 2027

ROUND 3*

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

MARCH 29, 2027

MATCHES SENT BY:

MARCH 30, 2027

*Round 3 buddies will be matched at random due to time contraints

BUDDY PROGRAM FAQS

A Buddy is a one-on-one connection designed to help members of our community support one another before/during/potentially after Craftcation. Alumni are asked to try and help make the first Craftcation a little more comfortable for our new attendees by sharing the tips and tricks that they’ve learned from their previous attendance, but the level of that connection will be ultimately created by each set of Buddies. 
Some examples of activities for Buddies:
You may…
  • Live close enough to meet up outside of Craftcation (perhaps  during one of our quarterly Neighborhood Hangs!)
  • Decide to become year-round pen (internet?) pals.
  • Decide to meet up for lunches the week of Craftcation, or  schedule classes together.
  • Decide to share a friendly wave and smile as you pass in the halls. 
You and your Buddy will decide what works best for you. 

Reach out to lisa@dearhandmadelife.com and let us know that you/your Buddy cannot attend, and we will see about finding you an additional Buddy for Craftcation 2027. 

If you wish to be reassigned, reach out to lisa@dearhandmadelife.com and let us know, and we will see about finding you each additional Buddies for Craftcation 2027. 

SUBMIT YOUR BUDDY PROGRAM APPLICATION

When applications are open, you’ll be able to apply below.