Hey all you quilters out there, have you heard of a block swap? Have you ever participated in a quilt block swap? We’d all rather be quilting now wouldn’t we? If you want to know what a block swap is read on.

“Swapping’ is one way of referring to this activity that can easily be classified as a favorite of many quilters no matter their age or how long they have been quilting. By making a specified number of blocks the same and exchanging them with other quilters you have a unique way to get a variety of fabric for your quilt without purchasing so many different pieces yourself. By being the instigator of this sway you now choose the format. Getting a group of committed quilters to participate will ensure your swap is a success. When trying to decide on a block or a pattern be sure to use your online quilt shop directory published by WRBQ, Inc. to make it to new quilt shops without leaving the comfort of your own home. Giving specific directions and expectations is critical.

Before enlisting participants, as the organizer you need to make some preliminary decisions like:

What number of participants you are looking for? Will you choose a standard block size? Do you want to agree on a common fabric for all to incorporate? What is the quilt block shop start date? When will this swap be finished? Are you utilizing a common theme? Will using the exact block pattern be required? Do you want to begin the exchange by meeting as a group? Shall finished blocks be mailed to the organizer or will a gathering to exchange be in order? Does the group want to make a charity quilt by each providing an extra block?

Once you have your group identified, parameters for the swap need to be given in writing to each participant, whether you meet, e-mail or use the US Postal Service. These directions will be used as a reference to look at as you are completing your blocks. At this point, anyone that may be unsure if they should participate will now know what the expectations are and have them in writing to make their final decision. The block exchange date has been decided, plans are made, questions are answered and you are on your way. Whether this is most easily accomplished by meeting together only that group can know what is best for them.

A qualification for me of an activity like this is will it be fun. If some fun will not be had, then I don’t consider participating. One way you can have fun with this one is to grab your Showtime Quilters Guide & Directory, the one created for quilters across the country by WRBQ, Inc. along with a few fellow quilters and head to several of the quilt shops listed in the regional quilt shop directory. Always plans for a lunch stop to be included and enjoy the day.

Having each quilter make and donate an extra block can be another aspect added to the quilt block swap. The group can decide on a charity to give the quilt too or using the quilt shop resource you can find a quilt shop willing to display and sell tickets to raffle the finished quilt. The raffle will give you funds to donate where the need exists. That warm feeling that can be derived from sincere generosity and kindness can bring a great amount of joy and satisfaction to anyone. What a bonus this element can be to the swapping.