bubbasmom99
DIS Veteran
- Joined
- Jan 13, 2001
to the DIS Swap Board! We are very happy to have you here. This thread is meant to provide you with information about swapping on our board. Please look through the list of questions and answers below to get started or just figure out what we are all about! Swapping
Q - What is a "swap"?
A - A scrap swap is when a group of people exchange scrapping elements. Typically, you make a set # of elements, one set for each person in your group. You send them all to the hostess, who swaps them out, and sends back to you. Example: there are 5 people in your group. You make 5 pieces of the same thing. You send them in and will get back 5 different pieces, 1 from each person in your group. It's a great way to build your stash of different elements without having to make individual ones of every piece! A swap can involve handmade items, store-bought items, or just about anything! Scrappers of ANY level are welcome on the DisBoards swaps, unless otherwise noted. We welcome newbies and would love to help you out with your first swaps. Please don't be afraid to ask questions!
What is an element?
A - An element can be many things title box, tag, journaling box, photo mat, library card & pocket, file folder, slide mounts, etc. Size specifications for elements can vary. Each swap posts their specific requirements. Visit the Swap Glossary thread for photo and information regarding the most commonly produced elements.
Ive scrapped before but Ive never swapped. How do I get started?
A As we said above, Scrappers of ANY level are welcome to join swaps here, unless otherwise noted. We host designated newbie swaps throughout the year so that new swappers can get their feet wet in a low stress environment. While these swaps are specifically for brand new swappers, you should feel free to sign up for any swap that is open.
How do I tell which swaps are open?
A The Swap Calendar lists all swaps that are scheduled to take place on our board. Swaps are organized by month and list the sign-up date, due date and hostess. This is done so that all participants know what is coming up and can plan their participation accordingly. The thread also contains links to swaps that are currently underway. On the sign-up date listed, the swap hostess will create a NEW THREAD on the Swap Board with specific instructions for that swap.
How do I sign up for a swap:
A - 1. Check out the Swap Calendar.
2. Once you see a swap you like, check the Swap Board for a sign-up thread. The thread will list specific instructions and guidelines for that swap.
3. Post on the thread to sign up for your desired spot or to ask questions about that particular swap.
What do I do if I know I want to participate in a swap but I will be on vacation/at work/on a business trip when the sign-ups start?
A Most swap sign-ups are left open up to a week to allow people a chance to join. If you know you wont be available during that time or are just concerned that you wont get a spot, send a PM (private message) to the swap hostess listed on the calendar and let her know that you are interested but wont be available. She will do her best to work with you to make sure you get a spot. Weve all done this at one time or another. After all, trips to the World are more important than swap sign-ups!!
Ive swapped on other boards. Do I have to join the Newbie swaps or can I do others?
A The newbie swaps are for people who are new to swapping and/or new to our board. If you have swapped before and want to join an open swap, please feel free to do so. No one is required to do a newbie swap first.
I dont live in the US. Can I still participate?
A Absolutely! We have regular swappers from the UK and welcome anyone, anywhere.
Where can I see samples of completed swap items?
A Visit our Swap Photo Gallery thread for links to past swaps.
Ive never done this before and Im worried my work wont be good enough.
A - Dont worry! We were all new to swapping and/or this board at one time and we were all worried that our items werent going to be good enough. Most of us look back at our first swap items and see how far we have come. Many of us still PM each other pics of works in progress to get inspiration and ideas. The point is that weve all been there and we are here to help. Do your best, follow the guidelines for your swap and that is the most we can ask. Everyone has to start somewhere and we are happy for this to be your place! And dont forget that one of the best things about swapping is getting back all different sorts of things that help to make your pages look wonderful!
How big are the photo mats and photo frames suppose to be?
A - Unless otherwise specified in the swap directions, they should fit a 4 x 6 photo without any cropping necessary. This means that the first mat should be slightly larger than that, usually 4 ¼ x 6 ¼, with additional mats being incrementally larger. Check the guidelines for your specific swap for additional information. Your swap hostess can also clarify for you.
Is it okay to make the topper smaller than 8 inches?
A - If the size is not specified in the swap guidelines, you could probably make it smaller, but it would be best then to poll the swap participants to see if they would mind.
Do I mail the items I have made for myself?
A - Yes, you send the hostess all the elements that you made for your group, including your own. That way the hostess does not have to figure out who gets what and every package mailed out contains the same items.Ive signed up for a swap but I wont be able to finish it. What do I do?
A As soon as you know that you wont be able to complete your spots, PM your swap hostess to let her know so that she has time to find an angel. Do please remember however that you are making a commitment when you sign up for a swap. Fellow swappers still have to purchase supplies and spend the time to make your elements even if you drop out. While we all understand that life happens, we ask that you think twice before joining a swap if you think there might be a chance that you wont be able to finish it. The most important thing in this situation is communication. Let your swap hostess know if you are having a problem. Chances are, she will be able to help you work something out.
I have an idea for a swap. Where do I post it?
A New ideas are always welcome! First, check the Swap Calendar to see if there is a similar swap scheduled to take place. If not, post an interest thread on the main Swap Board. These are usually titled something like, Is there any interest in a (fill in the blank) swap?
Are hostess gifts customary for a swap?
A Absolutely not they are totally optional! They are welcome and appreciated but never expected. Please dont feel as though this is something you have to do.
Hostessing
Ive swapped and hosted swaps on other boards. How do I host a swap here?
A We like to get to know swappers before they become a hostess. As such, we prefer that new posters complete three swaps on time and according to guidelines before hostessing their first swap. After the completion of the required swaps, post on the Swap Calendar thread that you are interested in hosting and you will receive additional instructions. Each first time hostess will work with a hostess mentor on their first swap. This person is an experienced hostess who will help coach the new hostess through their duties and act as back up as needed. After the first successful swap is completed, you are welcome to host any future swaps that will fit on the calendar.
I dont want to participate in three swaps before I host one. Cant I just host a swap now?
You are free to post a swap at any time. The issue is that most swappers on our board wont sign up for a swap hosted by someone they dont know or who didnt follow the above process. We do this to protect our significant investments of time, money and creativity.[/I]
A final message from Webmaster Alex on swapping on the DIS Boards. See the word swap where he has written exchange.
I still dont understand how all of this works. What do I do?
A If youve read this far and you still have questions, please post a thread on the main Swap board and someone will answer. Remember, we were all new once and we recall how it felt so we are all happy to help a newbie along. It will be no time at all before you are swapping away. Just be prepared cause its addictive!!!
I just made it a stickie. 
