Looking for something to do with those extra pieces of fabrics and fat quarters? Up to your ears in zippers, ribbons, patterns, buttons, threads and ric rac? Need some way to sort it all out?
Here’s how to get untangled, meet new people and re-build stashes by hosting a fabric swap with like-minded crafters.
Q: What exactly is a fabric swap?
A: Exchanging fabric, fat quarters, patterns, notions and other sewing supplies with others whom have like goods. No forms of currency are permitted.
Q: How is a fabric swap organized?
A:
1. Decide on a date, time and location to hold the event. Any open area venue with tables, chairs and sufficient mingling space suffices. For example, a back yard, a spacious home or a public library are ideal, practical and free of charge. To allow sufficient time to swap and mingle, it’s a good idea to allow 2 to 2 1/2 hours for the event.
2. To aid with organization, require guests to sign up in advance.
3. If the swap is open to the public, make and post fliers or posters to distribute throughout the community. If the swap is open to select persons only, send personal invitations through the mail, e-mail or post a notice on relevant blogs.
4. While these are only suggestions, in order to make a swap successful, every guest should adhere to whatever guidelines and swapping etiquette established by the host.
5. Guests should not donate items in which they’re not willing to part with.
6. For the price of admission, , each guest should bring a set weight amount of fabric and a nominal fee to help cover costs for coffee, tea, cake and eating utensils and supplies.
Note: Shopping tokens may be awarded for notions and supplies at a pre-determined value.
7. As guests enter, instruct each that items are first-come, first served basis. Then hand each a bag shopping bag and direct them to the various fabric, notion, book and supply tables of treasures.
Consider donating leftover items to a local charity or thrift center.
8. After the swapping is over, show off treasures, congratulate, and celebrate the remainder of the afternoon or evening with coffee, tea, cake and conversation.
Q. Why would you want to do it?
A. It’s the “green thing” to do, a perfect way to support your community and it’s a delightful way to network and meet people.
Wonderful idea; thanks! …and love the ‘green’ idea. Go Green!!!!