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Northern Michigan Fiber Festival

Instructor Rules & Expectations

Thank you for your interest in teaching at the Northern Michigan Fiber Festival! Our instructors are at the heart of NMFF, and we deeply appreciate the time, talent, and care you bring to our community. These guidelines are here to help create a smooth, welcoming, and enjoyable experience for instructors, students, and festival staff alike.

Accepting an invitation to teach, instructors agree to the following expectations. 

1. Teaching at NMFF

  • Instructors should have the experience and enthusiasm needed to teach their chosen topic with confidence.

  • Please provide clear class descriptions, accurate supply lists, and an appropriate skill-level designation so students know what to expect.

  • Arrive on time, prepared, and ready to teach for the full scheduled class period.

  • Foster a welcoming, inclusive, and respectful learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and learning at their own pace.

2. Class Proposals & Acceptance

  • Submitting a proposal does not guarantee acceptance, but we truly appreciate every submission.

  • NMFF may adjust class sizes, schedules, or request small revisions to descriptions or supply lists to best serve our attendees.

  • Accepted instructors will receive confirmation along with a teaching agreement outlining class details and compensation. 

3. Class Pricing & Student Fees

  • NMFF collects a $15 administrative fee per student for each class.

  • Please factor the administrative fee into the total class price when submitting your proposal.

  • Class fees should fairly reflect instructional time, preparation, materials (if included), and your expertise. 

4. Instructor Compensation

  • Instructor pay is based on class enrollment and the agreed-upon rate in your teaching agreement. 

  • Payments are issued at the festival once attendance is confirmed. 

  • 1099s will be issued for payments over $600.

5. Classroom Locations

  • NMFF offers three classroom location options: main floor (public), table next to booth (separate booth fee required), conference room (shared, semi-private space)

  • Classrooms are assigned based on availability and class needs and may include festival buildings or partner locations.

  • Please follow all location-specific guidelines, capacity limits, and setup instructions. 

6. Selling Merchandise During Class

  • Instructors selling merchandise at their classroom location in lieu of a vendor booth will be charged a $50 classroom usage fee, deducted from instructor payment.

  • This option is provided in place of purchasing a vendor booth and does not include selling in the vendor hall.

7. Supplies & Materials

  • Please communicate supply requirements clearly and well in advance.

  • Unless arranged ahead of time, instructors are responsible for providing all tools, equipment, and consumable supplies. 

8. Setup, Cleanup, & Shared Spaces

  • Instructors are responsible for basic setup and cleanup of their classroom.

  • We ask that classrooms be left tidy and ready for the next class or group.

  • Any damage to facilities or equipment may result in financial responsibility. 

9. Cancellations & Unexpected Changes

  • If an emergency arises and you are unable to teach, please notify NMFF as soon as possible.

  • NMFF may cancel classes due to low enrollment, instructor emergencies, or circumstances beyond our control.

  • Details regarding compensation in these situations will be outlined in the teaching agreement.

 

Northern Michigan Fiber Festival
Where Yarn and Friends Find Inspiration

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