The Craftcation Crew
Info & Application
Volunteer. Connect. Create something amazing.
Volunteering at Craftcation is an awesome way to attend our conference on a budget, give back to the creative community, meet new people, and have a ton of fun (yes, even while you’re moving furniture or scrubbing dye buckets). It takes a village to pull off a conference like this—and we couldn’t do it without our incredible volunteer Crew.
As a Crew member, you’ll trade your time and effort for a complimentary Craftcation registration, which gets you access to 200+ workshops, after-hours events, and more. Sound like your kind of adventure? Keep reading and apply below!
WHAT DO CREW MEMBERS DO?
Our volunteers help with setup, logistics, attendee check-in, workshop support, and more. Some shifts happen before the conference starts, others during, and some even after hours. Shifts are physical, long, and not always glamorous—but they’re also rewarding and fun. You’ll be part of the behind-the-scenes magic that makes Craftcation happen.
CREW REQUIREMENTS
Must be 16+ years old (under 18 must attend with a registered guardian)
Commit to at least 2 shifts (some departments require more—see below)
Able to stand for long periods and lift 15+ lbs
Attend required training (TBD)
Responsible for your own travel and lodging (discounted hotel rooms are available)
Be kind, flexible, and ready to roll with whatever comes your way
HOW ARE CREW MEMBERS COMPENSATED
Crew members get a ticket to Craftcation which includes:
- Access to 200+ craft, business, sewing, and wellness workshops
- After-hours parties, hangouts, and special events
- Our highly coveted Craftcation gift bag
- Invite to our private alumni groups on Facebook and Slack
- A behind-the-scenes look at how Craftcation comes to life
2026 CREW DATES
Note: Specific shift dates vary by department. Some roles require more than 2 shifts. See department breakdown below.
CREW DEPARTMENT BREAKDOWN
LOAD IN/LOAD OUT
APRIL 5 & 12, 2026
DUTIES: Help unload the trucks, pallets & boxes, set up rooms, build shelving, and decorate. At the end of the conference, help pack and load everything back up.
COMMITMENT: 2 full-day shifts
MUST: Lift 30-50+ lbs, move quickly, get messy
PRE-CONFERENCE SETUP
APRIL 6–7, 2026
DUTIES: Get the entire venue ready for the conference. Includes furniture assembly, organizing supplies, and installing decor.
COMMITMENT: 2 full-day shifts
MUST: Be 18+, able to lift 15+ lbs, use tools (a plus), move around fast
WORKSHOP SUPPORT
APRIL 8–12, 2026
DUTIES: Help with classroom setup, cleanup, flipping rooms, and assisting presenters.
COMMITMENT: 2 full-day shifts
MUST: General craft knowledge, lift 15 lbs, great under pressure
AFTER HOURS EVENTS
APRIL 8–11, 2026
DUTIES: Support our evening events: setting up signage, AV, decor, and tearing it all down at night.
COMMITMENT: 4 short night-hour shifts
MUST: Night owl vibes, able to move quickly, problem-solve on the fly
ATTENDEE CHECK-IN & WELCOME
APRIL 8 & 9, 2026
DUTIES: Be the smiling face that greets attendees, hands out lanyards and gift bags, and answers questions.
COMMITMENT: 2 full-day shifts (Wednesday & Thursday only)
MUST: Be friendly, helpful, and flexible
CREW DEPARTMENT FAQS
Apply using the form below (coming summer 2025 – if the form is visible, we’re still accepting apps!)
We’ll review your application and notify you if you’re accepted
You’ll receive a second form to give us your availability and emergency contact
Once confirmed, we’ll schedule your shifts and send registration details for your complimentary ticket
Already registered? If accepted, we’ll defer your paid registration to a future Craftcation.
- Crew spots are limited and filled on a first-come basis.
- The sooner you apply, the better chance you have of getting your first or second choice of department and days.
Submitting an application does not guarantee acceptance.
- While we would love to accept everyone into the Craftcation Crew, most of our positions REQUIRE being able to stand for long periods of time, lift 15+ pounds and move without limitations.
You are responsible for your own lodging and travel. We’ll cover your Craftcation ticket. Discounted rooms at the conference venue are available to all registered attendees, including Crew members, and are available on a first come first served basis.
There is truly something for every skillset. We have positions across several different departments. Each of these departments includes different service opportunities and requirements.
SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION
When applications are open, you’ll be able to apply below.
If you have issues with the application or don’t receive a confirmation email after applying, reach out to: hello@dearhandmadelife.com.
NOTE: If your plans change and you’re unable to make it (bummer!), please let us know AS SOON AS POSSIBLE so we can find coverage for your shifts. If you do not show up for your shifts, you will be sent an invoice for the full cost of your conference ticket.
*By submitting the application below, you are agreeing to the terms outlined on this page.
