I enjoy making things for people -- I always have, ever since I was little. I have a huge stash of fabric & I get a kick out of making something extra, or a couple of extras. I haven't seen any swap that says you must send extras. The Mug Rug Swap says it's allowed, handmade or store bought (because not everyone has the time to learn something new), it's up to you -- but you're only obligated to send the mug rug. How people interpret that is up to them.
I like the idea of just sending the POM, as that allows me time to spend on my mug rug swap, too. I work full-time, I'm exhausted after work, but I still get to sew at my sewing machine (this is the part where I lovingly give it a little caress), although mostly on weekends. I'm okay with all that.
My goal is to use up my stash!