CRKnits 1st Annual Mega Swap

Members: What month would be best for the mega swap next year?

Modified the swap requirements slightly.

My opinion on craft store yarns is falling. Since it was part of the original requirements, I'm leaving it in and asking that all of you send really high quality if it's from a craft store (example: Some of the new lines are lovely Lion has some new lines and Caron Simply Soft is ok, but not great. They offer many lovely colors, it's pleasant to handle and has a nice drape but it does have a tendancy to split. OTOH - Red Heart brands standby acrylic yarn would not be appropriate, it's itchy, harsh, unpleasant to touch and sometimes stiff or has an acrylic odor).

Moved the deadlines out (see note).

I am considering making this an international swap but would only do so with 100% agreement of those signed up.

Do any of you object or support that change?

Do you consider knitting needles "special tools"?

This is a very broad category. If someone sent me yarn and a crocheting pattern, I'd be out of luck since I don't crochet. Is there any way to handle this?

That's a very good point, since I do both I wasn't thinking about those who only do one or the other. Would it be beneficial to have a knit swap and a crochet swap?

I combined them for a couple of reasons. 1. The double cost for me of doing both a knit and a crochet swap, as the coordinator I'm obligated to participate-and I want to delight my partner(s) :). 2. I do both so either would be a surprise and welcomed. 3. I'm formerly light brunette leaning strongly to blond and it didn't occur to me :) 4. We're still a relatively small group and I wanted the most possible participation.

Feedback please. 1. One swap or two separate swaps? 2. Sufficient for us to put on our profile or here in comments which we do: knit, crochet or both. 2. How is the deadline with schedules and back to school? 3. If you havn't signed up yet - why not?

I'll go by majority of responses on the comments here.
You can pm me if you prefer also.

Thanks! Dev

Special Tools: No. Let's assume we have the size needed- unless you are sending a pattern for a size 15 set of needles, which many people don't have (yet). The other consideration is gauge since that varies between every person and multiple swatches may have to be made - how important is it to the pattern?

For example: If you need a size C (3.25mm) crochet hook to add seed beads to the pattern, I would include both the beads and the hook.

Let's assume we all have sizes Knitting needle sizes 5-9 and Crochet hook sizes - H-K. Does that work?

On the other hand if you want your partner to experience the lovely feeling of a beautiful rosewood set of needles, you could make the purchase part of your overall expense.. ;)

senders choice and always talk to your partner if you have any doubts!

Since I knit only, I'd prefer two separate swaps. However, I can sure relate to where you are coming from if you'd have to participate in both. I'll definitely put it in my profile that I do not crochet, hoping that will be sufficient. The deadlines are fine for me. Since I am only knitting socks right now, I'm not sure this is a good match for me unless I get a partner who also knits socks or has some familiarity with them so would send yarn to knit them. In other words, I'm debating signing up. :-)

I suggest that if anyone gets a partner who only does one or the other that they could choose a pattern that looks fun in the style needed and buy according to pattern recommendations.

btw-i love knitting socks too! I have 3 pair on now.

I only know how to knit and would prefer to have a knitting pattern. However, my partner only crochets that is fine - just please do not send any crochet hooks. I rarely use them, and have enough to get by. Please also be advised that if I send to someone who does not knit, I have no problem sending out a crocheted pattern - but it will not have been made by me.

I really like the idea of this swap, but it's just too risky in that I may get a partner who crochets only - either to send to or receive from. If I had to send to one who crocheted only, I'd have no idea what kind of pattern to send. If I received from one who crocheted only, she'd probably be in the same position, and I might end up with expensive yarn I'd never use. So, regretfully, I'm not going to participate in this swap. If you decide to do one in the future that is knit only, though, I'll join in.

i knit and crochet and i always look at profiles before doing the swap.