Frequently Asked Questions
Questions and answers specific to Summer Workshops, Square ONE, and Open Studio Residency are available on the program pages.
Questions about StarRez
Haystack has migrated to a new system, StarRez, for program applications and registration. Please see the list of questions below to assist with submitting your applications through the new portal.
I have applied to Haystack before. Why isn't my login working?
This year, Haystack migrated to StarRez, a new application portal. You must create a new account in the new application portal to apply, even if you have attended Haystack in the past.
I clicked "Forgot Password" but never received an email.
If you do not receive a password reset email, it is likely because of one of the reasons below:
You have not yet created an account in StarRez, the new application portal. Navigate to the Application Portal, select "Create New Account" in the navigation bar to create a new account.
If you already created a new account in StarRez, make sure you are using the same email address that you initially used to create your account. Additionally, check your spam folder.
I received an error saying my name "does not match pattern" when creating my account.
Error Message: Legal First Name is required, 'David ' does not match pattern: ^(?!\s)(?!.*\s$).+
This error typically occurs when an accidental space is added at the end of your name (e.g., "Mary " instead of "Mary"). This frequently happens when using auto-fill or typing on a mobile device. Please delete any extra spaces after your First and Last Name and try again.
I started an application but I can't find it on the home page. How do I get back to it?
To resume an in-progress application or edit a submitted one, log in to the StarRez portal and navigate back to the specific program page you applied for (e.g., "Sessions 1–6" or "Studio Technicians") via the menu. You will see a button to "Edit" or resume your application there.
Can I edit my application once I’ve submitted it?
Yes. You may log back in to the StarRez portal and make changes to your application at any time up until the application deadline. Navigate to the program page and select "Edit" to update your information or workshop preferences. Make sure to re-submit your application after making any changes.
How do I edit specific sections of my application in StarRez?
A list of links to specific sections of the application is located on the left side of your application. Click on any of the links to navigate to the part of the application you want to edit
I am receiving a message that the system is busy or at capacity.
To ensure system stability, the StarRez application portal can support a limited number of users at one time. If you see a message that the system is busy, please wait a few minutes and try refreshing the page. We strongly encourage applicants not to wait until the final hours of the application deadline to submit their materials. Make sure to “Log Out” once you have finished your application.
Can I apply for more than one workshop?
General applicants may only apply to one (1) workshop for Sessions 1-6.
If you are applying for a Haystack Fellowship or a Studio Assistant Fellowship, you will be asked to provide two (2) workshop choices to assist with placement.
Does the system save my work automatically?
The StarRez system will save your progress as you move between pages. You do not have to complete your application all at once. When you resume work on your application, you will be able to continue where you left off. Once your application is complete, make sure to submit your application.
For security, the portal may log you out if you have been inactive for 20–30 minutes. We recommend drafting longer answers in a separate document before copying & pasting them into the application.
Can I use my mobile phone or tablet to apply?
Yes, the application portal is mobile-responsive. However, for the smoothest experience, we recommend using a desktop or laptop computer to complete your application.
Navigation: On mobile screens, the main menu buttons may be hidden. Look for the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) in the top corner to access different sections of the application or your profile .
Typing: Entering detailed information on a mobile keyboard can sometimes lead to formatting errors. If you use a mobile device, please review your entries carefully before submitting.
Why did my information disappear when I clicked "Save" on the Workshop Selection page?
This is likely due to a security setting that logs users out after 15 minutes of inactivity. If you spend more than 15 minutes reading workshop descriptions or typing answers without clicking "Save," the system may disconnect your session in the background. When you finally click to continue, the page refreshes but cannot capture the data because the connection was lost.
Recommendation: If you need more time, we suggest drafting your text responses in a separate document (like Word or Notes) and pasting them into the application. To fix the issue now, please log out and log back in to refresh your connection before trying again.
General Questions
What should I bring with me?
Participants accepted into our summer programs will be provided with a Participant Guide that contains all of the basic information that individuals need to know for when they attend Haystack. The document details items you will need to bring—from clothing items to studio supplies, suggestions, and more.
What supplies do you sell in the store?
The Haystack store typically maintains an inventory of supplies basic to most workshops.
When programs are in session, if particular or unusual supplies are needed for your work, we advise that you to bring these with you, as we are located far from major supply sources. A list of special items to be brought from home will be given to participants in workshops that require more than simple, basic supplies.
The store also has a stock of drugstore items, stationery, selected craft books, clothing, snacks, refreshments, small necessities, and miscellany. There is no artwork for sale in the store.
Can I have a guest visit me while I am attending Haystack?
Typically when programs are in session, guests of participants are welcome to visit the campus, but because of limited facilities, we are unable to accommodate overnight guests. Space permitting and with advance notice to the kitchen, we can occasionally accommodate guests at dinner for a fee. Please check with the office if you would like to have a guest visit for a meal.
Do you have high-speed internet service?
Internet service on campus is limited. There is internet access in the library. Participants are encouraged to bring their own computers to the library to connect to the internet.
Do I need a car while I am at Haystack?
Having a car is helpful depending on your needs. Our campus is very secluded and there are no stores within walking distance. When programs are in session many students get by just fine for two weeks without a car—you can get essentials at the campus store or easily catch a ride into town with someone who has a car if you need something that we do not have available on campus.
I would like to teach at Haystack. How do I submit a teaching proposal?
The majority of our faculty are invited to teach based on invitation, however, we do accept inquiries from those interested in making teaching proposals. While Haystack will review all submissions, we cannot realistically accommodate every proposal given prior commitments, interest in the school, and our desire to develop diverse programming.
Teaching proposals are submitted through this application. The application will detail all of the materials we will need from you. Haystack will review proposals on a quarterly basis and if we need additional information we will contact you directly. All proposals will be kept on file for three years.
How do I get to Haystack Mountain School of Crafts?
Haystack is located in Deer Isle, Maine, approximately 250 miles north of Boston.
The closest airport is Bangor (BGR). From Bangor it is about a 1 ½ hour drive to Deer Isle.
Do you have a gallery where I can buy artwork?
No, we do not have a gallery. If you wish to purchase artwork made at Haystack you may do so during one of our session auctions.
Do you have programs for children?
Haystack has limited youth programming, primarily for local high school students. A list of the community youth programs is available on the Community Programs page.
Additionally, Haystack’s Fab Lab works frequently within the local school system and around the broader Blue Hill Peninsula by integrating digital technology and design proficiency into area classrooms.
Participants must be 18-years old to attend the summer workshop sessions and 21-years old to attend the Open Studio Residency.
Can I visit Haystack and see what is happening in the studios?
Haystack offers weekly guided tours on Wednesdays, June–August. Advance registration for tours is required. The 2026 tour schedules and registration will be available in May 2026.
For a full schedule of Haystack’s public programs, please visit the Visit page.
Do you allow dogs or other animals?
No. Pets are not allowed on campus–service dogs are welcome.
Is there cell phone service on campus?
Yes, but like internet service, cell service on campus is limited. Some carriers get better reception than others. Use of cell phones is discouraged in the studios, cabins, dining hall, or on the decks. There are designated areas for cell phone use.
I would like to arrive by boat, is that possible?
No. Haystack does not have a dock or mooring for visitors or program participants to safely arrive by boat.
Still have questions?
Monday – Friday
8:30am – 4:30pm EST
Phone | 207-348-2306
Email | haystack@haystack-mtn.org