Thursday, March 13, 2008

Newbie Traders' Guide - Volume One!


Because we have so many wonderful new people joining our team, I'm posting some general trade rules so that we're all on the same page! Trading is fun and wonderful and hopefully this helps people negotiate the wild world of trade-a-holism safely!!!! You'll get addicted, just like we did!
Rule 1 - Approach your prospective tradee (the person you want to trade with) via convo. Tell them that you like their stuff (obviously you do, LOL) and ask if they are willing to trade. It helps if you already have an item in mind. Be clear as well about what in your shop you are willing to trade for. You DON'T have to open your whole shop to trades!
Rule 2 - Wait for a response - and don't get your knickers in a knot because they say no. I've gone on a trading break when I get a little "traded out" - and that's okay. If you are the tradee, be nice about turning someone down. It's kinda like dating - let them down easy! :)
Rule 3 - If you both agree to trade, make sure that the trade is fair, and don't forget to include your shipping costs! I usually make sure that if there is a difference of $2 or more, to encourage them to choose more. Fairness rules!!!!


Rule 4 - "Purchase" the items from each other's shops - BUT DON'T PAY (unless you are trading for cash (as quiltnut60 says) but then that's buying, LOL)
Rule 5 - Ship at the same time!
Rule 6 - When you get your item, leave positive feedback!
And voila! Both parties gets something fabulous, both parties get a "sale", and both parties build up their positive feedback! Everyone wins!
There are variations on the trading theme - but these seem to be the general rule.
I hope these made sense and helps make your trade experience easier! It's so great to be able to own a great piece of handmade artistry by trading one of your own!!!!!!!!!!
Addicted yet? I AM!!!!!!!
xoxoox muffin

11 comments:

Alaska Hot Doggies said...

Thanks so much for laying that out so nicely, Muffin!

Trading does RULE! I just had my 100th sale this week. I contribute my 'true' sales to the sales numbers and feedback I received with trading...so TRADE ON!!

ThePeachTree said...

Great rules! I'm in the midst of my 1st trade so am really excited to see how it all works out :) LOVE that picture at the top too!!

Twiggymolly said...

Count me in to the "trade and replace " please
elizabethjewelry gal Molly

ButterflyChicBoutique.net said...

I'd love to play in the trade in replace, count me in :0)

Unknown said...

I want in on the trade-n-replace!

Anonymous said...

I've done one trade with hbamma and it was really cool! This game is nice, but seems like a regular trade-
or is it different somehow?
I'd love to do the "trade and replace", but unfortunately, I can't do any shipping (unless I sell something) for 2 weeks when I get paid, and it would have to be for something I really need like soap or deodorant or a purse! (I'm in a funky mood tonight)!

Staci Rose said...

Love to be included, too! :D

Twiggymolly said...

Yes, I would love to know the exact rules to the trade and replace game...

What is Wrong With Me 2 said...

This sounds cool! Where does the "trade and replace" take place?...How exactly does it work-- I'd love to do it! :)

Anonymous said...

I LIVE TO TRADE . . . Well, not really, but almost. Add me to the list, please.
http://joannjewelry.etsy.com

Indigo Arts said...

Don't you have to offer & choose "Other" in the payment section? Because if you choose paypal or something it'll keep prompting you to pay, right? (I've never traded before but want to start soon!)