The thing about crafters is that we acquire our stashes with creative intentions. Sometimes it can be hard to let that go. I still see promise at the back of the craft closet. Projects I used to be excited about are getting stale though. After browsing this event’s Flickr photos from last year, I’m delighted with the possibilities of the supply swap concept. Just behold that mountain of fabric! I think I might be able to kick this hording habit after all. I mean, you’re basically just trading for more things to horde, but maybe you’ve honed in better on what you like to make since de-stashing If you don’t happen to live near Richmond, consider following thier example, and start a swap like this in your area. You’ll be reducing consumption, and everyone involved will gain some fresh inspiration without putting a dent in their wallet. Consider where you might donate leftovers, or bundle and sell them to raise even more money for your cause. Maybe you could add a novelty twist, like pairing it with a book swap, or a coffee mug swap. I would think overwhelming people to clean out all thier closets by including clothing and the like might not be a wise mix with this. It doesn’t have to be a big to-do like a craft show, and given the prevailence of crafters online, using the internet as your primary marketing tool would be a cheap and easy way to promote. Piece of cake. I want to leave you with a lofty Al-Gore-esque goal: Annual craft swaps within 50 miles of everyone in America in 10 years!
