WHAT IS A SWAP?

A swap is proposed by a person who becomes the host or hostess. He or She sets up all of the details including the theme, style of project, quantity, stamps used, embellishments used, due date and postage.

Theme - typically this can be a general idea as "Winter swap" or a little bit more specific like my "flower swap". Winter is such a broad idea that virtually any stamp related to winter could be used.
The flower swap is a little bit more specific because there should be a flower somewhere on the card (whether it be stamps or punches, it is up to the host or hostess).
You can suggest a technique swap such as unusual folds, pop up cards, bleach stamping, shaker cards, etc. As the hostess, you determine what you would like to do.
Project variations - can be stamped jewelry made out of clay, shrink plastic, plastics, rubber, leather, and paper.
You may also decide to do a bookmark, gift tag, postcard, or baggie gift swap.

Quantity - You will see something like 6 for 5, 10 for 9 or it may look like 6/5. It means you will make 6 cards the same and receive 5 different cards back. As the hostess you will sort all the cards and you will send different cards back, one from each person that is playing in the swap. This kind of swap means that you are graciously giving the hostess one of your cards in thanks for hosting this swap. You send her 6, she keeps one, and returns 5 back to you. This is VERY TYPICAL!!!!

Due Date - Some people state the exact date that they NEED your cards. Others suggest a postmark date. I have heard of hostesses that were VERY strict with their postmark dates. If yours were sent late, they would refuse your package and send it back to you. All because you didn't FOLLOW the rules and mailed them late. Etiquette suggests that when you are interested in a swap, contact the host. They will usually respond back with all of the fine details. Then you will make your cards. When you send them, tell the host that they are on their way. The host will reply when she received your swap item and will notify all when they get sorted and remailed. Try to be timely because you don't want an entire group waiting on YOUR cards. If for some reason you can not keep your commitment of sending your swap, it is very good for you to let the hostess know so that she won't be waiting for them.

Postage - Everyone pays their own postage! (unless the hostess states otherwise!) Whatever it takes you in postage to get the cards there, send that many stamps on a return self addressed envelope enclosed with your cards. Some hostess may also ask for a return label, only the stamps, a return envelope, or extra stamps just in case the return cards are heavier. Some also suggest to send your cards in a plastic bag within the envelope to prevent them from getting wet. (I would suggest that you do this anyway.) Any questions, contact the hostess.

*** Another thing to keep in mind. If you mail your cards out in an 8 x 10 envelope, they may come back bent. Unless you place a piece of card board in there to prevent this. Most ladies use 6 X 9 Bubble Wrap Envelopes or just 6 x 9 mailers. Swaps are fun because you get to see other styles, stamps, techniques and learn from them! All different levels will be playing - so don't worry if you think that you are JUST A BEGINNER! Come and learn!!! And remember to ALWAYS sign and put your email address on the back of EACH card! Everyone wants to receive the proper credit!!!! Do store bought cards come with a blank back? I didn't think so!!
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