Swap 101 and Etiquette

This section is for all those who are interested in Swapping but are not sure of how it works. This page will provide you with the basics information of what is required. Also we will share some tips on some other swap etiquette.

What is Swapping?

A swap is a group of 5-12 people who sign up for different elements pertaining to scrapbooking; each person makes or buys the item they signed up for, mail to the designated hostess, and then receive a complete themed kit back in return.

What do I get in return?

When you sign up for a swap, the elements listed are what you will receive back. Most handmade items are 1 per person, where as embellishments vary from swap to swap. So you will always receive 1 of each handmade item back including 1 of your own, and occasionally embellishments; when they are offered.

Do my items have to be identical?

 Your items should be as identical as possible when ever working on swap items. The reason for this is it makes it easier in swapping out, more fair to the people in the swap, and sometimes it can be easier on you when creating your item. Exceptions would include: I am short on the paper I have been using, but I have other paper that still meets the criteria (Go for it), I was embellishing my items, and I ran out of the color brads I was using, but I have some that will match (Go for it). There are always exceptions; use your judgment.

What does "Must match theme" mean?

You will see this comment in many final details. This simply means that your items must match the theme of the swap. For example; if you join a swap about the Disney movie Cinderella; decorating your items in Mickey Mouse would not be acceptable. Simply put, your items must pertain the the theme. Hostesses may send your items back if you did not match the theme.

What embellishments are considered acceptable?

In the world of scrapbooking there are hundreds of embellishments. We are fairly open in what you may use, but some restrictions apply occasionally. Embellishments that are acceptable include: (Brads - 2+) (Ribbon & Fibers) (Eyelets - 2+) (Buttons - 2+) (Inking, Chalking, Tearing, Sanding, Painting, Embossing, Stamping, etc.) (Primas & Other 3-Dimensional items.). Many hostesses do not allow the use of 1-Dimensional (or flat) stickers; they will however allow the use of 3-D stickers. Please check with each individual hostess if you are not sure.

What size should my items be?

All items are different, but most have size requirements. I will provide the basic standard sizes of items; however if you join a swap that is specifically one size you will need to make adjustments as necessary. This means that you might have to format your items if you join a swap that is 12x12, 8.5x11, 8x8,6x6, etc.... The standard size of items when no layout size is given are as follows: (Title - 8"-10" Long x 2"-2.5" Wide) (Tag - 3" or larger {2pp if smaller}) (Journal Box - 4"x 4") (Book Pocket - 4"x 4") (Matchbook - 3"x 3") (License Plate - 5" x 2.5") (Photo Mats - Made to fit 4 x 6 photos) (File Folder - No larger than 4"x 4") (Book Mark - 2.5"x 4") (Altered Letters - 1.5" tall or larger) (Poem/Quote - Varies with size) ( Recipes - Vary on specification of swap).

Where can I learn to make different items?

There are many places on the Internet with directions on how to make certain items, as well as Message Boards that provide examples. We have some links located in our Learning Corner .. If this does not provide you with what you need, doing a basic search in Yahoo or Google will usually provide you with what you need.

Where can I purchase required embellishments or papers?

Some hostesses will provide a direct link to at least one store that will carry specified brands. However, if there are none provided checking out our Shopping Guide will provide you with some stores we recommend. Also we have a Swap Discounts page that lists online sites that offer our members a discount.

What is a hostess gift?

A hostess gift is often a small token of appreciation some swappers like to send to their hostess. It generally is to thank them for their hard work in putting together and running a swap.

Are hostess gifts required?

No. You are never obligated to send gifts to your hostess. Many people choose to, and others choose not to. We as hostesses love what we do, and will continue to do it; we do not expect gifts in return.

What if my work is not good enough?

This is one thing that many new swappers worry about. Let me assure you that if you do your best and strive to make items you would be proud to use in your own books, you will have nothing to worry about. If ever you still are not sure, scan or photograph your item and e-mail it to your hostess. She will be happy to let you know if it is acceptable.

How can I tell if a swap has openings?

Swaps are set up to showcase how many items are available. Most have the items listed before hand; when this is the case just look next to the items, ones that do not have another members information listed are considered open. Sometimes a hostess will make the remaining open spots BOLD so they stand out. Other times swaps are set up with no items listed, just look for an empty line to let you know there are openings.

How do I sign up for a swap?

At the bottom of the page…click on REPLY. Type in the spot you would like, group number if there is more than one group, your real name, MB name and email address. Click send.

The hostess will then add your name to the swap. Please make sure you check any posts made before yours, to see if someone else wanted the same spot. Spots are filled in the order received.

How does the postage element work in swaps?

You as the swapper are responsible for providing postage to mail your items to the hostess, as well as postage for the hostess to use to send your items back. The rule of thumb is to provide as much postage for the return as it cost you to send. You should also include 2-3 extra stamps just in case. All unused postage will be returned to you. You should place return postage in a small baggie labeled "Return Postage for ________". If you ever do not have enough postage for the return trip the hostess will contact you and request that you send more. You will have 30 days to do this, after that the hostess can offer the swap on our Swap Scraps board.

What if I need to back out of a swap I signed up for?

Communication is key! We as hostesses understand that things happen and sometimes it is necessary to back out of a swap. Please e-mail your hostess and let her know ASAP ... as long as we have time to find someone to replace you it will be fine. Not notifying your hostess will result in being placed on our Concerned List. This list is accessible to all hostesses. This could prevent you from swapping in the future; notifying the hostess will ensure your ability to participate in the future.

Is the due date carved in stone?

Yes. The due date is there to ensure all swappers have their items in at the same time. Please leave yourself enough time to get your items in on time. If something happens and you are gonna be late, notify your hostess. We as hostesses like to have full and complete swaps so we are usually willing to work; but communication is necessary.

What is an Angel?

An angel is a person who steps in and takes the place of someone who had to drop a swap. Any available angel spots are listed on our Angels Needed page. The basic information is provided, but not all. If you have any questions pertaining to paper/embellishment requirements please contact the hostess listed by the swap you are interested in.

Why are some swaps Bazzill Only?

 Some swaps we host require the use of Bazzill card stock. The reason for this is because it is one card stock that is available to all people (either locally or on-line), and it ensures a matching swap. By using this card stock it ensures that if you wanted to use matching paper that you could find it. When the swap specifies Bazzill only, it must be used.

Are the colors listed mandatory?

Yes they are. If the hostess has assigned colors to a swap they must be used. If the colors are specified by name those exact colors must be used; not necessarily all of them but at least some of them. If the hostess specifies colors (i.e. greens, blues, and yellows), and shade may be used within the color groups.

Can I request a Swap?

Any time you have a swap you would like to see you may go to our Request a Swap page to do so. All you have to do is specify the type of swap you would like. One of our hostesses will then contact you to get your specifications so they can get it posted for you.