Haystack Fab Lab Programs: Research, Education and Digital Fabrication

The Haystack Fab Lab is much more than a digital fabrication workshop. It is an internationally recognised innovation hub where traditional craftsmanship meets advanced digital manufacturing technologies. Through a diverse range of residency programmes, research initiatives, educational workshops and collaborative projects, the Fab Lab supports artists, designers, engineers, researchers, students and makers in developing new ideas, materials and production methods within a highly collaborative environment.

Fab Lab Residents: Creative Research Residencies

The Fab Lab Residents programme welcomes skilled makers, artists and digital fabrication specialists to undertake experimental research projects that explore the future of contemporary craft. Residents investigate new materials, fabrication techniques and digital workflows while actively engaging with the Haystack community through open studios, demonstrations, workshops and collaborative projects with faculty and students.

Fab Lab Internships: Practical Experience in Digital Fabrication

The Fab Lab Internship programme provides local students with valuable hands-on experience using digital fabrication technologies such as 3D printing, laser cutting, CNC machining and digital design tools. Alongside technical skills, interns develop communication, teamwork and project management abilities while contributing to real-world projects that connect traditional craftsmanship with emerging technologies.

Haystack Labs: Interdisciplinary Innovation and Research

Created through a collaboration between Haystack Mountain School of Crafts and the MIT Center for Bits and Atoms, Haystack Labs brings together artists, designers, material scientists, engineers, programmers and machine builders to explore the future of digital fabrication. The programme encourages interdisciplinary experimentation, collaborative research and the development of innovative fabrication processes that bridge art, science and technology.

Winter Programs: Year-Round Learning Opportunities

The Winter Programs extend Haystack's educational activities beyond the summer season by offering workshops, courses and collaborative learning experiences focused on digital fabrication, craft, creative technologies and design. These programmes provide makers of all experience levels with opportunities to expand their technical knowledge while becoming part of an active creative community.

Winter Maker Residency

The Winter Maker Residency invites artists, designers and creative technologists to collaborate with local makers, educators and students within Haystack's Fab Lab and community innovation spaces. Participants develop new projects, exchange expertise and contribute to an inspiring environment where experimentation and knowledge sharing are central to the creative process.

Creative Makers Collaborative

The Creative Makers Collaborative is an educational initiative developed in partnership with Haystack Mountain School of Crafts, Pioneer Prize and Project Launch. Designed for high school students, the programme introduces young makers to digital fabrication, engineering, design thinking and emerging technologies through hands-on projects, mentorship and collaborative learning experiences that inspire future careers in innovation and technology.

A Leading Centre for Digital Craft and Innovation

Through its wide range of educational programmes, artist residencies and collaborative research initiatives, the Haystack Fab Lab has become a leading centre for digital fabrication, creative technology and contemporary craft. By combining advanced manufacturing tools with an open culture of experimentation, collaboration and lifelong learning, it empowers individuals and organisations to transform ideas into innovative prototypes, artistic works and future-ready solutions.