Hmm, I realised that by posting this may make it seem like a whiny b*tch. I assure you I’m not bitching but am voicing out what I think is my right on my own blog.
I’ve joined about 3 swaps conducted via Ravelry and am currently on the 4th one, which is the Aussie Favourite Colour Swap.
Out of the 3 swaps, I was disappointed with 2. Which is the reason why I’ve decided to voice out here.
I have two complaints:
1. Everyone who signs up for the swap should obey the rules and keep to the budget limit. The Aussie swaps are usually limited at $25 or above. And I got one package sent to me that was obviously below $25.
Now, I usually go over the limit BUT I am NOT comparing NOR AM I EXPECTING something equivalent in return. I give because I want to. I give because I love spoiling the person I’m supposed to spoil. But rules are rules.
If something unexpected happened to my ‘spoiler’, that is something that cannot be helped and I would understand. But events such as having exams, paying tuition fees, moving interstate/overseas and other circumstances that are anticipated or obviously planned in advance, one should think twice about signing up if they cannot meet the demand of $25 or above.
In a worst case scenario, one can always send an SOS message to the moderators to get ‘swap angels’ to help out.
And one must also factor in that postage is NOT INCLUDED.
Once again, I must stress that I DO NOT expect my ‘spoiler’ to go over the $25 (or whatever the limit is) mark. Just stick to the rules only because it’s fair.
2. Prior to the commencement of the swaps, participants are usually asked to fill in a questionnaire. This Q&A gives the bare basics of the person’s likes/dislikes. For example, favourite colours, allergies, preferred knitting/crocheting accessories etc. There is also a question that asks “What type of yarn will you not use?”.
I really wish all participants would take their time to read this short questionnaire. If you do not wish to stalk your ‘spoilee’ on Ravelry or on their blogs, at least read the questionnaire.
Because, I have put down that I do not use acrylic or novelty yarns at all. But received it in a recent swap.
Before you jump and point your finger at me, calling me a ‘yarn snob’, I must clarify that I do knit with ‘cheap’ yarn. I buy wool from Spotlight. I use ‘common’ brands such as Cleckheaton, Patons, Yarn Bee, Moda Vera etc. AS LONG AS THEY ARE MADE OF NATURAL FIBRE, I use them.
This is a personal preference.
I have received a huge bag of acrylic from my mum’s friend and I thought I could use them to knit toys. I tried knitting a toy elephant out of it for Sunshine but halfway through, I stopped. I just do not like the feeling of it on my fingers and on my needles. I gave the bag away to my god-sis who doesn’t mind knitting with acrylic.
For what it’s worth, we do not use artificial fibres for our clothes either. Few months back, Nad and I cleared out all sweaters/jackets/shirts that were made of polyester and acrylic and gave them to the Salvation Army.
I just do not like the feel of artificial fibres on my skin. We try our very best to buy only natural fibres for our clothing. I have eczema and wearing a jacket made of polyester would make me perspire, itch and break out in rash as compared to a cotton or wool jacket absorbing the moisture and leaving my skin dry. Even my bra and underwear have to be cotton. Otherwise you would see me break out in rash. (Not that you would get to see those parts anyway!!!) (And hoo boy! Cotton bra is hard to find! )
The only time I would use an artificial fibre is when it’s a small percentage of nylon in sock yarn.
I do not judge people who use acrylic. So you should not judge me either. It’s all personal preference.
In my personal opinion, not reading the questionnaire or even trying to get to know your ‘spoilee’ better shows a lack of interest in participating in the swap. Which in this case, why sign up?
I know I’m treading on egg shells here….*nervous laughter*…..
I’m moving on and not losing sleep over this matter. I do not have a vendetta against my previous swappers at all and am NOT bitter over this. Disappointed, yes. But not bitter. Not losing sleep. Not harbouring ill thoughts. I’m also not out to gain pity so don’t start sending RAKs to me.. LOL..
I wanted to write this also because of a few mates I’ve got to know through Ravelry who have been disappointed with what they received in the past too. (One received a shoelace [wth!?!], one received a 2nd hand book, one received a tiny packet of candy etc….) They all suffered in silence. *Sigh*
I also do not want to lose faith in these swaps… they are supposed to be fun if everyone would play by the rules!
On the other hand, I know there are really nice swappers out there who put their time and thought into the swaps and I feel happy looking at all those nice little parcels that other people receive and feel spoilt over. I’ve even got ideas from some of the parcels and am going to incorporate it into the current swap I’m in! 
I’m getting excited just thinking of what I can put together for ************* (oops… almost gave the person’s name away!).
To those participating in swaps: Have fun! Remember the rules and remember to read the questionnaires!
