| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| EastTXFarmgirl |
Posted - Dec 29 2009 : 10:01:40 AM
I am posting this, not to point fingers or to outcast anyone but rather, hoping that as a group we can find a solution to an ever growing issue. I have been on the forum about a year now and in that year I have participated in many swaps and barters. I must say I have been very pleased with all the transactions I have been involved in. And I hope that the ones I have swapped/bartered with will say the same about me. The issue is that many of you have not been so fortunate. I read over and over where some of you have been left holding the bag. I recently hosted the Christmas Apron Swap and I am still getting emails from many of you stating that you have sent your apron and not heard from your partner since and your emails have gone unanswered. Or that you are getting multiple excuses for not receiving a return. I have read the posting of many ladies that are losing faith in the whole swap/barter system. Farm life was built on bartering. This is not a new concept. I grew up on a farm and remember the neighbors swapping this for that or your time for mine. A shake of the hand or a word was as concrete as any contract. When we sign up for a swap or barter we are giving our word that we will complete that task and expect that our partner will do the same. Unfortunately, there are some signing up that are not following through. Everyone needs to do an internal check prior to joining in a swap or barter. Ask yourself will I be able to complete this task or will my return barter be equal in value to what I am getting? If you see that you will not be able to complete your end there is no shame in saying I think I will have to wait. The shame comes when a partner is left in the dark. I have had to drop out of a swap because of circumstances but I made sure that I informed the group and the hostess. What can we do about this growing issue of inconsiderate actions? I bring this question to all of you.
Begin each morning with a song in your heart. |
| 25 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| crittergranny |
Posted - Jul 21 2012 : 10:20:13 AM
The only thing that has not set right with me is when someone says they are interested in anything in return but don't give any specific thing they would like and then they switch it to "well you can just send money". I personally do the swap mostly to find homes for some of my stuff I don't need and it's fun to get something in return, but I'm not in it to buy something. I think there should be a separate page for stuff for sale. Although I do not have a problem with 2 folks deciding to make it into a transaction, I just feel there are some with that intention in mind in the first place. I don't care for silly shell games. If one is wanting money for something then they should be up front about it. However I am new at this so there may be issues and reasons for things that I am not aware of.
Laura
Horse poor in the boonies.
www.nmbarrelhorses.com |
| delicia |
Posted - Jul 20 2012 : 05:06:42 AM
I love that area. I am from Hazard. |
| kysheeplady |
Posted - Jul 20 2012 : 03:30:37 AM
South Central KY. near Lake Cumberland
Teri
"There are black sheep in every flock"
White Sheep Farm
www.whitesheepfarm.com |
| delicia |
Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 8:09:05 PM
Teri, so you are in Northern Ky? I am in Cincinnati |
| kysheeplady |
Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 6:02:09 PM
Near the Marina ... and no you ... did not say anything to discourage me.
Teri
"There are black sheep in every flock"
White Sheep Farm
www.whitesheepfarm.com |
| delicia |
Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 4:27:56 PM
Terri and Colina I feel horrible that you had that experience. I have participated in quite a few swaps and have enjoyed them. The only stress is stress that I put on myself. No one has ever said anything to make me feel bad about what I have sent as a swap. I love learning the new things and the swaps are a great way to do that. If i said anything in my post to make either of you not want to participate I am so sorry. I love the swaps and have had alot of really good and fun things sent to me. I would encourage both of you to participate in one and see what you think. Teri what part of KY are you in? I am from KY and love it. |
| kysheeplady |
Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 10:47:40 AM
Colina,
I could not agree more! I am new here,and I have been looking around all the threads and came across a swap that I thought I might like to try. I e mailed the person and asked a few questions about it. She was so obtuse about it, I said forget it. I felt as though they didn't want any new people in on the swap. So for now, I will stay out of the swaps. But I do think you are right.
Teri
"There are black sheep in every flock"
White Sheep Farm
www.whitesheepfarm.com |
| rubyleesmom |
Posted - Jul 19 2012 : 09:41:58 AM
I know the main issue on this topic is not following through and holding up your part of the swap, but I'd kinda like to put my two cents in too if I may. Please, I hope I do NOT offend anyone and if I do I sincerely apologise as that is not my intention at all! I have participated in a few barters and all have been good experiences for me.. I have always been too afraid to join in on a swap though.. not for the fear of not receiving anything in return, but for the fear that someone will be disappointed with what I sent them. To be honest, I have seen some comments in the past on the forum that I am sure are not meant in any way to sound that way, but really just kind of come across to make me feel like to be in a swap you have to be this awesome crafty person who does stunning work and I am fully aware that I am not the greatest at crafting and stuff yet, (but i do try my best)..What about maybe doing swaps for different skill levels? For example if you would prefer it to be something a little more fancy and detailed, list experienced sewing preferred in the subject line? Or if it is just something simple, name it something like beginner apron swap etc? Again I hope that i didnt offend anyone...I do love being part of the Farmgirl Sisterhood! Just renewed my membership and looking forward to my 2nd year! I am blessed to be connected with so many wonderful people :-) It was Just a random thought from a fellow farmgirl. |
| delicia |
Posted - Jul 18 2012 : 06:55:32 AM
Hi all, I have read through and am sad that there has to be a discussion on this topic. I have been really blessed to be a part of the FarmGirl Sister Hood. It gives me an outlet for crafts and I have learned so much from everyone on here. I have not recieved on only one swap and that was sad but, what can you do. I try to do unto others as I am sure that most of us do. When dealing with people everything is not going to be perfect. I have mostly been blessed by the swaps that I have participated in. I am always hoping that the person that I have as a partner likes what I send but, I am sure that most of my things are not equal to what some of the sisters produce. No one has ever said anything to hurt my feelings on that though. I do fill my things with love and work really hard on what I send. I do not get into some of the swaps because I know that I can't produce such beautiful things (aprons) I really wish I could but, it would be unfair because I know my efforts would not be up to par. I love the idea of keeping a notebook and will start doing that. I just want a place where I can grow, and learn as a crafter and a person and this site helps me to do that. I am so happy to have found Mary Jane and am going to stop rambling now. |
| doll58maker |
Posted - Jul 17 2012 : 2:17:39 PM
Hello friends, I have been reading MJF threads today because I am a little under the weather and am still in my pjs at 4:00 p.m. I have been on the chat forum less than a year and I have not participated in any barters or swaps until I could see how it all works and what to expect. I actually have just finished reading this whole thread and a few things stand out for me as good ideas. Someone said contact your partner when your item is ready to send and be sure they are still in the game before you send it, that would greatly improve your odds of getting your swap. and 2)Have a basic set of rules (maybe you do already and I didn't see it) that is sent out by the "swap mama" and one of the rules says "if your circumstances change and you can not fulfill your swap, please contact your partner or swap mama immediately , and 3) post on the swap thread when you get your swap and publicly thank the partner--everybody else will read it and a list of responsible names will emerge. If you don't get your swap, post: gee whiz, something must have happened to ..(name names)....... because I haven't heard anything and never got my (swap) from her. That gets the message out without actually "mucking" anybody. and serves as a reminder in case it was an oversight. It sounds like some of you were disappointed but your goal here isn't to "muck" anybody so much as you don't want to see your sisters go through the same thing and you are trying to find a polite way to cover that.
Nothing is going to solve the problem of the occasional let down. It's all part of the game. but these ideas that you have come up with might improve the game a little. just my 2 cents for what its worth.
Glenda #3534
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| gathered herb |
Posted - Jul 08 2012 : 1:21:47 PM
hello ladies, I am glad to be back!!!!! I have moved to my little farm in the woods & love it. I too, have done a couple swaps... & only once have been very disappointed... I am glad this topic is up... I would like to join back in on the fun with faith!!!! patty |
| kysheeplady |
Posted - Jul 08 2012 : 05:53:13 AM
I am new here, like not even a week. I have just posted an item for barter, and now after reading this I am not sure even if I want to follow through with it. I really did not expect this sort of thing here ...I know they happen ...
oh, I am sure there are more good than bad ... but I have had my bad experiences at other places, where I have sent off my item, and waited only to get nothing in return! Really, I mean when you take the time to do this, and then someone else does nothing and reaps the benefit from you and how many other?
Why can't you initialize some sort of a feedback rating for people who have had swaps or barters ... and then people can make an informed educated decision ...
But again, I am new to Mary Jane's world ... but, not new to the world in general ...
So for now I guess I will remove my barter ( I haven't made a deal yet) and wait and see what you all decide ...
I just don't want to start off on a bad foot, as well as the people may not want to barter/swap with someone as new as I am, they don't know me at all ... Maybe, someone new to MJ should have a waiting period or something.
KY. Sheep Lady |
| FARMALLChick |
Posted - Jul 06 2012 : 1:30:17 PM
Wow. There are some very strong emotions on this. Can't say as I blame them either. I do hope that those I have swapped/bartered with were happy with what was received. I know I have one swap that is pending due to my unusual situation. I did post a message to that extent and that I would get in out to her as soon as I can. If I have missed someone, I hope they would contact me and tell me as much. I get scatterbrained sometimes and forget that I was supposed to send something. I have also written down what I'm supposed to send and when, but sometimes I forget to look at the calendar!
Lora
"Courage is being scared to death and saddling up anyway" -John Wayne
www.CountryFriedAcres.etsy.com
www.farmallchick.blogspot.com
www.farmallchickphotos.blogspot.com |
| khartquilt |
Posted - Jul 04 2012 : 10:19:53 AM
The reason I joined the forum was for the swaps. At first it was just the quilt block swaps. Then I did some apron swaps. Did the cloths pin swaps. Mini apron swaps. Did I receive items not up to my standards? yes. But that is all part of the risk. Have I received items above and beyound, yes!! Wonderful items that I still use to this day. Items I keep in my sewing room on display.
And yes it is very sad when your partner does not hold up to her part of the swap. But I just take it all with a grain of salt. I have swapped with a number of different ladies. I spent money on confirmations and insurance. I have sent things second day and have even sent things out of the country. As for the SS swaps, it is very difficult to keep 100% on top of this. I have emailed a number of ladies asking if they have received and or send out a package, never to get a reponse. I see them on other threads/subjects just chatting away. It is sad. But what can you do?? Should we start a "Black List" thread? Post the names of those that do not keep there end of the swap or barter??
I too keep a journal of names of people I have swapped with. I keep notes of those I will not swap with again. I have infact told the swap host that I did not wish to swap with certain people because I did not receive from a different swap.
If it were a perfect world this thread would not be on this forum.
When you join a swap there is always a chance of not receiving something from your partner. Just remember that when you send your item out, that you are doing the right thing. Try to remember that the joy should be in the giving not the receiving. Oh I know it is wonderful to receive a package in the mail. But it is also wonderful to know that you are doing the right thing by holding up your part of the swap.
Have a Happy 4th everyone.
Kathy H
Farmgirl Sister #81
"To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world..." (anomymous)
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| darlenelovesart |
Posted - Jul 03 2012 : 8:10:08 PM
That is too bad that that has to happen that way.
I have learned that to have a good friend is the purest of all God's gifts, for it is a love that has no exchange of payment.
by Frances Farmer |
| gramadinah |
Posted - Jul 03 2012 : 7:55:10 PM
I have sent swaps with delivery confirmation so I know that the package got there but never hear from that the person about getting it.I don't think what I have sent has been that bad And I know that things get busy but a quick note on that thread is just good manners. I have gotten away from swaps and tried this one again but will think about them and probably will not sign up for more.
Diana
Farmgirl Sister #273 |
| darlenelovesart |
Posted - Jul 03 2012 : 6:54:39 PM
Hi Robin,
I agree that on the SS swaps it would be nice to have a separate thread because sometimes the person doesn't give very much info to be able to know what to get them, so you are hands are tied when you try to get them something.
Last year I was in a swap and my computer did go down for quite awhile so I wasn't able to get all the addresses, I did go to the Library once a week and use their computers but I still missed the email with the addresses but I tried to keep up with sending the swap back everytime I was sent one because the addresses were on the envelopes. I think I missed one because there wasn't a return address on it. so sorry I missed that one...but I really try to get the swap back on time.
darlene
I have learned that to have a good friend is the purest of all God's gifts, for it is a love that has no exchange of payment.
by Frances Farmer |
| Wauka Mountain Mama |
Posted - Jul 03 2012 : 2:51:20 PM
Personally, I've never been burned on a swap. I have two ladies I had started a barter with who never sent me their addresses so I couldn't send mine so they just sorta dead-ended. Iam alright with that, people get busy & stuff happens.
The sad truth however is Iam currently super behind on two swaps. I've kept in touch with both parties & they've been understanding but I feel really guilty about it. I've completed both projects as of this weekend but I have absoultly no money to mail them out. I've been having to cover extra summertime daycare for my son, who has PDD/NOS as well as Type 1 Diabeties and his health care needs are the main reason why Iam always behind on swaps which need time to put together. Honestly, I joined this group & the swaps so I could have something for myself & I really needed the distraction, but I have been thinking about giving up the swaps seeing as how I can't meet the deadlines. :(
I can't speak for every member of the forum, but sometimes things just happen & people can't do the things they really want to & in that case thats just as sad as not getting a return on a swap. I've been sewing sence I was two years old, I need to sew, its an issue of comfort as well as fuction, but theres still weeks where I never get to do it. So, I just wanted to say that if anyone ever gets me in a swap just trust in the fact that I will get the item to you as soon as I can. :)
Live simply. So that others may simply live.
http://waukamountainmama.blogspot.com/ |
| darlenelovesart |
Posted - Jul 03 2012 : 2:33:55 PM
This sounds really good to me let me know where I can help.
I have been fortunate to have had good swaps and have really enjoyed them and I agree if you have a problem and can't just email the host or the person your swapping with and let them know. I am sure they will work with you...These sisters here are really wonderfully caring sisters, God Bless them all for trying...I misplaced an address of a person I was swapping with so just e mailed the host for the address. At least she knows there was problem and you are trying to fix it.
I love this site and the sisters who are on it. Thank you all.
hugs
darlene
I have learned that to have a good friend is the purest of all God's gifts, for it is a love that has no exchange of payment.
by Frances Farmer |
| Simple Living |
Posted - Jul 03 2012 : 1:01:13 PM
Luanne, you had a good reason for being late...don't you dare feel bad! You wouldn't let your farmgirl sister's down on purpose. You are not like that :)
A Friend is Someone who Reaches for your Hand, But Touches your Heart!
Farmgirl #3842 |
| beekeepersgirl |
Posted - Jul 03 2012 : 12:46:09 PM
I'm posting again to this forum as a remind for all of us who participate in barters and swaps. I have participated in 6 barters/swaps since January, and have not received the promised items from 3 of them.
Please everyone, if you sign up for a barter or swap and for some reason can't fulfill your commitment, at least take the time to e-mail your swap or barter partner and let them know. It isn't fair to just leave someone hanging that has in all good faith sent their items to you.
I know we all get busy and things happen. I was recently late sending out a swap, but e-mailed my swap partner several times explaining that I was out of state on a family emergency and would send my swap as soon as possible. I sent the swap items as soon as I could and e-mailed my swap partner one last time letting her know it was on its way and asking her to confirm when she received it.
Thanks for letting me vent!
Luanne
beekeepersgirl #691
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
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| beekeepersgirl |
Posted - Jan 05 2012 : 05:31:27 AM
For any of you girls that are computer savvy, I set myself up with an Excel spreadsheet with columns for what was bartered for, when it was sent, what I received, name & address of the barter/swap partner, e-mail address, etc. That way it is all on one page and I hilight the completed ones so I can tell at a quick glance what ones are not yet done.
Hope this helps!
Luanne
beekeepersgirl #691
Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.
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| BusyBeeMary |
Posted - Jan 04 2012 : 8:51:30 PM
such a great idea, I do track swaps, but not as organized as yours... this is a better system. All I can say, is if another swap occures and I get picked the partner that bailed and did not communicate with me, I will as the swap organizer for a new partner. Love your swap journal idea for sure.
To Live a Full life one must LOVE MANY THINGS- Vincent Van Gogh
Mary Fitzpatrick
#3232
http//www.Thepurplecrazylady.blogspot.com
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| longbeachfox |
Posted - Jan 04 2012 : 1:21:51 PM
It has been interesting to read the posts on this subject. I don't know if this will help you, but I keep a little journal for my trades. I am enclosing a page for you to see. I put what I am trading, the person's name and address and usually what they are looking for (to remind me :>)), when I mail it, I attach the receipt and when I receive the package from the other end, I list what I was sent. At that point, I usually try to send them a thank you via email or mail. You will note the circle on top with the check. That is my indication that all was completed. I can glance through my book quickly to see if I have traded before and if the the trade was completed. Like most of you...I have had some with no checks :>(( I think what disturbs me the most is if they write to you and say they are still working on it, etc. and it never comes. I have to say, however, I did have one person say this, but she kept me posted and did send me the neatest little quilt...very neat. She did, however...keep me posted. I always heard from her. With others, who have not completed, it is usually a case of no communication after the initial trade emails. This is a sticky subject, yet one that needs to be talked about for sure. Hugs, Mary PS...to all of you I have traded with...it really is so much fun!
Farmgirl # 2532
With God...Nothing Is Impossible!
http://foxontherunarts.blogspot.com
www.etsy.com/shop/longbeachfox
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| vera-ellen |
Posted - Jan 03 2012 : 8:02:28 PM
I agree with all that has been said. I have been involved in several other swaps from the internet and have been burned horribly. I didn't take any of it personal, but did want other people who trusted in the person/s to know how they treat 'sisters'. I don't know the answer to that and the 'mother' who has to handle all the sad promises broken should be given an award of some kind.
I do know that there always seems to be one person who burns all her bridges and a lot of people get burned before it is taken to heart that there is an untrustworthy person on the list. AT the time that this happened on a qulting list I was on, a lot of people were hurt, a lot of money was taken and who knows how many other lists or people she did this to. You WANT to trust and believe the people you meet through the internet, but without face-to-face communication and a real 'feeling' through other types of interaction, you just never truly 'know', you can only 'hope' your trust isn't taken for granted and proved to be given to the wrong person. I continue to trust knowing that it may not be recipercated. I hope no one is offended by what I have written or takes any of this personally, as I am new to the swaps on barters on this list and hope whoever has received what I have sent out, are happy with what they have received. I look forward to receiving my swaps and barters and plan to be a good 'sister'. I know how it feels not to be treated that way!
Hugs,
Vera-Ellen sister #1477
luv2handsew |
