Originally Posted by Nancy in Louisiana

I'm sorry if I stirred up anything by my suggestions, but they were just that -- random thoughts. Personally I'm not opposed to the different block patterns/fabrics, just wondered if it created a hardship on some of the newer quilters who are still building up their inventory as well as a financial hardship on others who have to be careful how they stretch a dollar -- especially with postal and fabric costs going up in the very near future (46 cents times 35 is $16.10 for mailing out the eighths, probably a little more to mail the blocks back if you have a post office that won't let you mail them as correspondence rather than parcel;parcel rates will bring each one closer to $1 each. Cost of 4.5 yards of fabric for the eighths would be $18-$40, depending on JoAnn's vs. quilt shop prices. So, you don't realize it at first, but this swap can get rather pricey the way it's set up now. (Not too much of an expense if this is the only swap you want to do) I was concerned by the number of "regulars" who are dropping out. The longer timeframe is a good idea. Less blocks would also be helpful. Even 20 blocks, set 4x5, with sashing and borders would be an adequate lap quilt or charity quilt (4 feet by 6 feet without sash and borders). Maybe if there is a Boom 3 still this year, the lesser number of blocks required would be more attractive and less frightening to newbies. I'm not saying only 20 or 24 people could sign up, I'm just wondering if the total number can be divided into groups of 20 or 24 or whatever depending on how many are interested. The number of swap participants wouldn't be limited to 36 total so more players will be able to join in. If you feel you need more than 20-24 blocks, you could sign up twice or use the same swap fabric for the next Boom. I know it's a lot of work for the coordinator (sorry, April) but I would be more than willing to help you out. I know you have a pretty full plate right now with health issues and work and most importantly being a great mom, which you undeniably are. (I don't know how you do it all and still maintain sanity or sobriety). By no means am I disrespecting or belittling you or your past efforts, I was just trying to make it easier on you and your time. I like to participate in other swaps as well as the Boom, and cutting the 36 blocks back would take a lot of pressure off. If I didn't feel that due date hanging over my head every time I looked at that pile of envelopes, I might be more tempted to try different and more complex patterns rather than settling for something rather simple just to get thru the stack. Sorry April and everyone else -- didn't mean to make waves. I love the swap and would probably sign up again regardless of what y'all decide to do. I'll not voice my thoughts and concerns out loud next time.