I don't know how to do a swap!!!

Glad you asked!

Basically you find a swap under "swap shop" that you think would be interesting. Pay attention to the dates because while some swaps are ending, other's are just beginning. Go to the end of the thread to make sure that new "rounds" aren't being started. If partners haven't been posted, simply ask to be a part.

If you're new, you should do the newbie swap first. Go here:

http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/board/creative/swap_shop/2155-sponsor-a-newcomer-swap-need-vets

Most swap hosts suggest that you complete this swap before you can join theirs. Don't be offended if they don't let you join before doing this swap first!

Also, check out this post for a little more information. Hope this helps!

http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/board/creative/swap_shop/4160-swap-guide-end-survey

Oh, I forgot. A swap is basically when people from all over the world are paired up by the swap "host". (The person who starts the thread)

Swaps are usually themed. For example, "sunglasses swap". The host makes a suggestion that people get together to make creations based around "sunglasses". If the host suggest that they all be made of clay...then they're made of clay. (or whatever medium the host suggests) Otherwise, swaps can be any craft made to fit that theme.

Then, once you're paired up, you'll make a certain number of themed items (as suggested in the rules set by the host) and mail these creations to your partner. She will then return the favor and mail her's to you.

Hope this made sense. I was trying to type in a hurry, because my baby keeps trying to press all the keys!

Haha, kookiegurl, first they are loads of fun!!! A swap is when a group of people participate to make crafts for someone else

Themed swaps, i.e. a swap that specifies a particular favorite movie, craft, item, etc., where you sign up to join. The host will provide the rules of the swap, also giving a time limit for people to join and then partnering all who has, including themselves. Partners will then contact each via message on the site to exchange addresses and possibly preferences as to what they would like to receive, fav color(s), other likes and/or dislikes. That is not mandatory, but it's fun to customize crafts for your partner. Most of the time, 5 to 7 items are good to make and send your partner unless the host specifies otherwise, which is also sometimes listed in the rules and guidelines. So everyone crafts something for their partner and send out by the date given. Most of us swap host aren't strict about sending out on the date, so it's not set in stone, just a guideline, but we do ask that if you will be late sending out, let your partner know and keep in contact until you have posted out. Once you get your goodies, you post on that you received it and if possible post a pic of what you got. Some of us take pics before sending, so if you can't put up a photo then your partner will

Now, to host a swap of your own, you can do anything you want in any theme you want but you don't necessarily have to have a theme. They are mostly for inspiration crafting, you set your own rules and you can let anybody join and you have the right to deny anybody to join. We only do this if the person joining is a known "flaker". (Someone who signs up for swaps but don't send out or go MIA). It's just not fun to be expecting to receive something, but don't especially when you have crafted for your partner and sent them something. So reneging on swaps is an absolute no-no!

There is a swap especially for newbies like yourself who has never done one, to get you a foot in the door on swapping and give you an idea on how they work. Most of us require now that you do this swap first before joining our swaps.
Go here:
http://www.cutoutandkeep.net/board/creative/swap_shop/2155-sponsor-a-newcomer-swap-need-vets

and put in your info: (you can copy and paste this)
Cok name:
Location:
Newbie or Veteran:
You then wait for a veteran swapper to volunteer to swap with you, this is when you exchange info.

Hope this helps and happy swapping!!

Thanks Creative...you said it much better than me!

Haha, Dessah I guess we were posting at the same time.

And I have the same problem sometimes with my grandson insisting on helping me type, cute!!

Hey,thanks guys.I had no idea how to do this,and I finally understand this now.But I don't know if I'm going to do a swap soon,cause I'm kinda broke right now.....:p

That's very good advice you just gave yourself. It's better to wait for when you have funds, than to promise someone a swap but not be able to deliver.

Also, I notice that you're very young. I would suggest asking your parents before committing to a swap.

Hey honey I wouldn't worry about it so much, there's no pressure. I've been a member of this group for a little over a year and I've only JUST participated in a newbie swap - thanks to Heather C's kind and generous nature.

I personally was too nervous to participate in a swap because my crafting skills - sewing, knitting etc are very limited.
All I can do is cross-stitch and rivet/eyelet things (I only learnt how to do the latter a few days ago!!).
EDIT: Ooooh and some very basic hand sewing...

I think it is probably best to wait till you are ready to committ yourself to a swap. Money isn't TOO big an issue, one item I'm making is upcycled/revamped - I can't say too much incase Heather C reads this thread, I don't want to give away one of her items but I'm sure she'll love it