Hi Kathy,
I hope you do join us. Some of the packages you've seen this month do seem to be over the top -- but I happen to know that they come from the homes of people with huge stashes of goodies (also known as fabric/thread/notions hoarders).
I personally collect things as I go along and keep them in a big bin specifically for the swaps. I am someone who never, not ever, shops without coupons. You'd be surprised what you can get. Joann and Michaels both of which often have time limited coupons for a good percent off - 25%-30% - and that covers discounted items too. So you can get little gifty things for well under $1.
I also include things that I make for my pal. I have an embroidery machine and sometimes like to make something using it. Since I sew for a living, I have a scary big stash of fabric, so I can augment my purchases from my stash. I also shop estate sales and if you hit one that is the estate of a quilter you're in luck.
I've found that the most expensive thing in the box is candy - but HOORAY! Right after Easter and Valentine's Day you can pick up excellent candy at a steep discount at places like CVS. The trick is hiding it from hubby so he doesn't eat it.
Also, the members of my quilting guild donate books and magazines that other members can buy - 10 cents for magazines and $1 for books! You can't beat that!
So be creative and you'll find you can keep it to under $10 even at Canadian prices. I look forward to having you among us!
Originally Posted by
works4me
Hello all. I am thinking of joining a SP swap in a couple of months but have a question - how on earth do you keep the cost down to $10 with all the cool stuff that is going in these boxes?
I don't think I could do it even visiting the really good dollar store. I'm in BC, CANADA and things are expensive.
Do you give items from your personal collections, garage sales etc as well as new items and fabric from your stashes?
Any tips would be welcome so I can start collecting.
Thanks a lot.
Kathy