Exchange Idea

I've signed up for a neat ornament exchange with one of my local stitching groups. The idea isn't new, but this is my first time to participate so I thought I would share.

In this exchange you swap kitted up ornaments instead of stitched ornaments. Here is how it works:

• Form a group of 6 stitchers or less. Any more than 6 and it can become a really expensive exchange! It works best with a local group, but could be done long distance if everyone is willing to pay the postage.
• Everyone in the group purchases the latest issue of the JCS Ornament Magazine (or any issue, as long as everyone has the same one) and then chooses an ornament. Everyone should choose a different ornament.
• Everyone buys the supplies for stitching (and finishing) their chosen ornament 6 times (Or for however many members there are in the group.)
• Stitch and finish your chosen ornament.
• Put together a kit for each member of your group using the extra supplies you purchased. The great thing about this is you rarely need full skeins of floss for an ornament. When you stitch your ornament, keep an eye on how much floss you use, then put that amount plus some extra in each kit. No need to send full skeins of floss! The same goes for beads. Just be sure to label everything in your kits!
• If you make changes to your ornament or have tips to share regarding the finishing process, you can include that information in the kit.
• Get together with your group to exchange kits and admire your finished ornaments. If there are 6 in your group, you will come home with 5 ornament kits and your own finished ornament. Make sense?

The St. Louis Stitchers have had several groups participate in this sort of exchange and it always looks like so much fun. The group I am in will not exchange until March, so there is plenty of time for everyone to choose a project, get it stitched and make kits. March will be a great time to get started on ornaments for Christmas 2007, and I'll have a stack of kits to choose from. Kewl idea!

I worked on Meri's Queen Bee Scissors design last night.

I didn't get started stitching until late, so there isn't as much progress as I would like. Perhaps tonight I can get more done. I'm eager to fill in the gold stitches!

I'm also itching for another start. I need to stitch a little gift for a local friend so I have a great excuse. If I can get the fabric and floss together today, I might just start it tonight! Hmmmm...