Swap?

Swaps are exchanges of crafts or supplies between two or more CO+K'ers.
When you sign up for a swap, your name gets added to a list and the swap organizer will pair you with someone that you'll send swaps to.
To participate in most swaps, you need to complete one round of the Newbie vs. Vet swap.
If you do not send out your swap on time, you may have a hard time finding future swap partners. If you don't get something from your swap partner, you can add them to the list of unreliable swappers and find a new swap partner in the "Swap Angels" topic.
The Newbie vs. Vet swap is usually fun & easy. As a newbie, you'll be paired with a vet who will send items to you and you will send items to them. Adding your name to the list of newbies will make it so that vets can see you're waiting and they will either message you or reply to your board post.

Very cool, thanks for the info

Hmmm... so I'd like to swap but I guess I'm a little nervous.

Could someone tell me a little more about the swap? Like...

Do you feel safe sending out names/addresses? What's expected of a swap in quality, quantity and cost (I'd hate to disappoint)? How long does it normally take from being assigned to sending it out? Is it required to post teaser pics? Or post pics of items received?

I'm sure its a simple process but I like to know the details before committing one.

I've never had any qualms about giving out my address - lots of swaps are international so the possibility of someone turning up on your doorstep is low!
Some of the swappers on here have done in excess of 30/40 swaps so that is a lot of people who have their addresses and no problems reported so far!
Perhaps there is a alternative address you can use if you're really concerned - a work address for example.
Each swap sets out the number of items expected (ie newbie vs vet is usually 3-5 but you'll decide with your swap partner)but many swappers include extras but that really is up to the individual there is no pressure to do more!
Cost doesn't come into it - lots of crafters recycle, upcycle and thrift/charity shop. (Again it's individual, what is expensive to one person is perfectly reasonable to another!)
Swapping is about the thought and care that goes into creating the items. It's a great way to improve your confidence about what you are doing!
Swaps have a send out date, it depends on what level of crafting is involved. It's ok to send out early, but if you're going to be late contact your partner, everyone understands that life gets in the way at time but appreciate being kept in the picture!
Photos are appreciated but not demanded - it's nice to see what people are making and receiving.
Phew long post thanks for making it to the end!!

Most swaps, especially the types meant for newbies as well as vets, have tons of details. Swaps centered around vets are usually much more open to interpretation but require more specific items to be made.
In the Newbie vs. Vet swap, for instance, newbies are expected to send their package out first so that the vet can tell if they're a good swap partner or not--vets don't want to send a package out that won't get a package sent back in response. Also with the NvV swap, you list 5-10 items/themes you like, and your partner will do the same. Each swapper will make or send 5 or more items that fit what the other wants.
In other swaps, you might only have to send 1 or 2 items; however most will require 5 or more.
Not all swaps are open to newbies. These kinds of swaps are typically for vets that are willing to make very specific items.
Swaps typically involve crafting unique things that fit the personality of the partners.

And if you're wondering how to become a vet, all you have to do is complete the Newbie vs. Vet swap or any other swap that allows newbies to join it.

Thanks guys that helps a lot