GNOME ANGEL

Angie Wilson of Gnome Angel talks us through the dos and don’ts of a quilt swap in the latest installment of her column.

Participating in swaps is a great way to grow your skillset, make friends and hopefully receive some fabulous mail! On the down side, swaps can bring some unneeded drama into your world. I’ve put together some dos and don’ts to help you make the most of your swap experience to ensure you’ll want to do again and again!

DO...

Measure a in seam before starting and ensure blocks are as close to the required size as possible.

Read the swap requirements so you know what’s acceptable for the materials – for example, whether fabrics have to be pre-washed and how to press your seams. File them where you can find them again. Stick to the deadlines and check-ins. Maintain contact with the swap leader. Be proactive in letting them know of any issues and when you’ve posted the parcel.

Pay for parcel tracking and insurance (if you can afford it), when things go wrong, it can come in handy.

Read the swap requirements, then read again! I can almost guarantee you missed something you’ll need to know later on.

Look after your swap items and pack them for safe travel so they arrive clean and in one piece.

Say thank you – to the person who made your swap item, the swap leader who has looked after you and the swap organiser who’s donated their time.

DON’T...

Ignore what your partner asked for. If, you work in reproductions, but they want modern fabrics, you’ll need to step outside your comfort zone. You’re making something for your swap partner, not yourself.

Air your dirty laundry in public! You may be unhappy with how the swap turned out, but avoid venting on social media. Contact the swap leader and work towards a resolution.

Sign up to a swap just to get something amazing in the post. Remember: it’s

Most important of all: be gracious. Swaps are a mixed bag with no guarantee you’ll get something you love. Keep in mind that someone, just like you, spent his or her precious time and resources to make the item, doing their best to send something they thought you’d like, so be respectful and say thank you. Kindness is free and the one thing you should always include in your swaps.