UK Swap

Sign ups are now closed

2011-04-12T08:14:00.001+01:00

Thank you to everyone who have signed up - it should be a fun swap this time round.

UK Swap sign up round 7

2011-03-21T08:00:00.001Z

Sign ups are now closed

2010-10-23T09:13:00.001+01:00

Thank you everybody for joining the swap - sign ups are now closed and matches will be going out shortly.

UK Swap Winter Warmer 2010

2010-10-04T14:45:00.004+01:00

Sign-ups now closed

2010-05-15T14:47:00.000+01:00

No further applications will be accepted for this swap.

Thank you

Round 5 - Sign up here

2010-04-30T22:55:00.001+01:00

Winners and Sponsors!

2009-08-05T17:50:00.002+01:00

We have a winner for the chatty topic- Congratulations to Scarletprincess and one for best package -Congratulations to Padihamknitter

Our wonderful sponsors for these 2 competitions are Nic of Nicsknots and Jane from Cucumberpatch

Thanks everyone, especially moderator Tiggerbee for making this a great swap!

Ali

Reminder of Posting Deadline

2009-07-01T17:28:00.000+01:00

As it's the 1st July today, this is just a reminder that you have just over 2 weeks to post your parcels. ALL PARCELS MUST BE SENT BY 17TH JULY.

After you have been to the Post Office, please leave a message on the Ravelry group so that the organisers can keep track of the parcels.

Thank you

Confirmation of Participants

2009-06-02T21:56:00.003+01:00

For completeness, and possibly to help with the forthcoming Treasure Hunt, this is the full list of participants in the UK Swap -Round 4. (Ravelry Ids)

Angrymum
BatOutOfHell
blackmagpie
heldap123
JustAli
Karmastitch
kathj
katiepops
knittyvicki
leni425
mazzam
menace
Nickerjac
NotKnottyLottie
PadihamKnitter
rdodo
rooknits
SarahGoodie
scarletprincess
scarlettina
Snowbell
sqyguy
SuseDolAmroth
tiggerbee
Yinners

We have a winner!

2009-05-31T23:10:00.003+01:00

For our "Pimp Our Swap" competition Vicki is our winer! Ravelry ID is knittyvicki so go look her up! Vicki, we'll contact you soon to see which of the books you'd like courtesy of Hulucrafts

Thanks to our competition sponsor- please all go look at her great site, I dare you not to buy something! She's got so many things over there you're sure to have the breaking strain of warm kitkat!

look for the next comp- it should be fun!

Sign-ups now open for Round 4

2009-05-15T08:50:00.002+01:00

To sign-up for this swap you need to fill in and submit the form below, and to answer the questionnaire by posting on the UK swaps Ravelry Group

Thank you

Round 4 Summer Swap Obligations and Commitments

2009-05-13T12:36:00.002+01:00

Please read these carefully before signing up.

• This is a UK only swap. You must be living in the UK with a valid address (not P.O. Box) to send/received packages.

• The swap is scheduled to take place from May to July 2009. Sign-ups open May 15th and will be open for two weeks. Matches go out by early June. Packages must be received by July 31st.

• This is a secret swap. Take a moment to create an anonymous email so you don’t accidentally give away your identity. Also make sure that when you send emails your real name does not come up. If you would like to send a test email to us at ukswap@googlemail.com to check, we will email you back and let you know.

• This round is a Ravelry-based swap. You do need to be on Ravelry to join the UK Swap Round 4.

• It is not necessary to have a blog - but if you do then make sure it is linked in your Ravelry profile page. This is a great way for your spoiler to get to know you.

• Because blogs are not required, an anonymous email IS required. You will need to provide the email for sign-ups so head on over to any email program and create an email that doesn’t give away who you are!

• Keep in contact with your partner. Contact your downstream pal at least once a week. You can send them an email, an ecard, or comment on their blog. Remember to stay anonymous! Keeping who you are a secret is the most fun.

• You will be expected to post to the Ravelry group once a week too. This way the hosts can keep track of everyone as well.

• You have over a month (after matches are received) to put together a great package suited to your pal’s tastes and preferences.

• There will be games and discussion topics during the swap. These are optional, but the more people that play, the more fun we all can have. There will be prizes. Hopefully there will be something for everyone!

Package Requirements - Round 4

2009-05-09T11:03:00.002+01:00

The following are requirements of the package if/when you join the Summer 2009 Swap (sign-ups open May 15th). Please note that these are the minimum requirements.

There will be links on the Swap Blog to help you with ideas and gifts to include. Please try to cater to your downstream pal’s tastes as much as possible. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your hostesses.

Minimum of 100g of yarn / fibre. Please ensure it is something your pal will like and use. It can be from your stash as long as it is new and has a label (or card if hand-spun/dyed)

Details of a pattern for the yarn / fibre supplied (can be something from your partners Ravelry queue). Books (including high quality second hand), pamphlets or printouts acceptable.

Yummy treats to eat or drink. Check out their preferences and try to send them something they will enjoy. (chocolate, tea, hot cocoa, coffee, biscuits)

A new item to pamper/play with. Don’t forget to double-check any allergies! (soaps, bubble bath, candles, funny-joke toy, knick-knacks)

A local speciality (can also be under one of the other headings). It might be alpaca from a local farm, Kendal Mint Cake, Tiptree Jam, Norfolk Lavender - you get the idea.

Minimum spending: £20 not including shipping.

A handmade item is NOT required, but is always a thoughtful addition to a swap package.

Round 4 Key Swap Dates

2009-05-08T13:45:00.002+01:00

These are the important dates.

Monday May 11th 2009 – Questionnaire released

Friday May 15th 2009 – Sign-ups Open

Friday May 29th 2009 – Sign-ups Close

Sunday May 31st 2009 – Questionnaire due

Last Weekend of May (Saturday 30th May – Monday 1st June) – Matches go out

Tuesday 2nd June – if you have not received your match, please contact hosts at ukswap@googlemail.com

Friday 5th June – First Contact due

Friday 17th July – Packages Sent By

Friday 31st July – If you have not received your package, please contact hosts at ukswap@googlemail.com

Roll up, roll up for Round 4

2009-05-08T13:18:00.002+01:00

Round 4 is currently in planning and will be accepting sign-ups from this time next week (Friday 15th May).

Keep checking back as we update the rules and requirements for the Summer 2009 swap.

Warming your Head

2009-01-09T08:00:00.001Z

This weeks Friday inspiration is all about warming your head.

I've made loads of hats recently using Woolly Wormhead patterns. I can't recommend them enough! The Meret, which was the mystery knit-a-long hat at the end of last year, is a particular favourite. It's a really quick knit, I've made 2 so far!

I also really like Tamya and Traversa

There are loads of great hat patterns out there at the moment. Esme from the Inside Loop looks like it would be a really fast knit, and lovely and warm too. I have a thing about berets this winter, Porom by Jared Flood and Fern Glade from the winter Knitty have both crept into my Ravelry queue.

My colourwork obsession continues with Selbu Modern, Kate Gilbert's Syncopated Caps, this Snowflake Tam and a recent addition to the queue a Fair Isle Beret from Popknits.

So, onto this weeks questions:

What is your favourite style of hat?

Do you have a favourite yarn for making hats with?

What hat patterns are in your queue at the moment?

Do you have a favourite handmade hat that you (or someone else) has made?

Friday Inspiration - Warming your Knees

2009-01-03T14:40:00.002Z

OK, so this week's inspiration is also a day late. Sorry!

This week we're looking at blankets. Blankets are very important in our house. Both my husband and I get very cold in the evenings, so always wrap ourselves up. All the blankets in our house are crocheted and date from a time before I knew about natural fibres and patterns. They are similar to this, just big granny squares, really.

I quite like the idea of knitting blankets in a modular fashion. It seems more manageable, though I'm not sure about all that seaming afterwards. The patterns that really catch y eye are log cabin designs like this, or this. I love the idea of trying mitred squares and Rambling Rows Afghan, looks a great example.

I think my favourite of all though, is the Curlicue Coverlet. I like how different the pattern looks, depending on the choices made by the knitter.

What has been your favourite finished blanket/lapghan?

Do you have a favourite pattern that you'd like to make in the future?

Do you have a favourite type of yarn for making blankets/lapghans?

Warming your feet

2008-12-27T10:08:00.003Z

Friday Inspiration this week comes a day late - oops, sorry about that.
I hope everyone had a lovely Christmas day.
This weeks inspiration is about warming your feet. Winter warmers to me says thick cabled socks and felted slippers.
My favourite pair of thick socks are these:

The Pattern is Whitby (Rav Link) from Nancy Bush's "Socks on the Road". It is a super pattern, the diamonds down the front help you easily keep track of when to cable, and knitted on 3mm needles these seemed to fly by. They are also knitted in the very luxurious Posh Emily 4ply - a mix of wool, angora and cashmere. Not the most practical sock yarn but perfect for house socks.

Now onto felted clogs or slippers. I saw loads of these for sale at the Christmas market in Birmingham. I've never made any of these, but always wanted to. Fuzzy Feet from Knitty always sticks in my mind as a pattern to try. The Drops people have come up trumps with a couple of free patterns too: Felted Slippers and felted boot slippers

What is your favourite way of keeping your feet warm?
Do you have a favourite pair of socks you reach for to keep your toes toasty?
Is there a pair of socks/slippers you have been wanting to make for ages but haven't got around to?
What is your favourite finished object that warms your feet?
What is your favourite yarn to use for socks/slippers?

Link to your answers in the comments below so we can all see how you warm your feet.

Contacting Swap Partners

2008-12-20T15:36:00.002Z

Please can everyone make sure they are contacting their swap partners? If you have yet to hear from your upstream, or haven't had a reply from your downstream, Ruth and I would like to know, so that we can make sure people haven't dropped out.

I know Christmas is a busy time, but the key to a successful swap is communication, so please remember both your upstream and downstream pals.

Friday Inspiration - Warming your Neck

2008-12-19T21:43:00.002Z

This will be a less pretty post, as unlike Ruth, I don't have project photos for you. I haven't got as far as knitting anything to keep me warm yet!

Of course that hasn't stopped me looking.

In the last swap, I was sent Knitting New Scarves by Lynne Barr. There are some lovely scarves in this, which have several different and intriguing techniques. The one which is my favourite, is Drifting Pleats. It flows beautifully. I also like the way it works with variegated yarn, though I think I'd rather knit it in solid or semi-solid.

Thinking of Winter Warmers makes me think bulky yarns. My favourite bulky scarf is the Herringbone Scarf. It is a fairly simple technique, but looks quite effective. I think it would also probably look quite good in my handspun.

My current real love though, is cowls. They just look so cozy. The Chickadee Cowl is a great pattern for variegated yarn. Spiralicious is a charming lace cowl.

My favourite though, is a combination of scarf and cowl, the promenade scarf. I love the idea of buttoning it round my neck. Maybe I should go on a stash dive?

What is your favourite neck warming pattern?

Do you have a favourite FO?

Is there a style of neck warmer you particularly like?

Please post about neckwarmers on your blog, then come back here and link us to it, so we can have a look.

Friday Inspiration - Warming your Hands

2008-12-12T08:00:00.002Z

Today is all about giving you inspiration for gloves, mittens and handwarmers.
I'll start with mittens as I am completely obsessed with stranded knitting at the moment and have recently finished my first pair of stranded mittens from the Selbuvotter book.
These were made in The Yarn Yard Bonny sock yarn and took about 25g of each colour.

There are quite a lot free patterns around at the moment for stranded mittens. The people page in Ravelry contains Favourite Mittens at the moment. You have to check out Pinneguiri's finished items - they are amazing.

Or how about cats, dogs, fish or even squirrels (pdf) on your mittens? Or you could take a basic mitt pattern and design your own using graph paper.

My current favourites are in the latest Twist collective, Postwar Mittens.

Natalie at The Yarn Yard is also hosting a Mitt-A-Long in the new year, so maybe a mystery mitt is for you? More details in their Rav group

See, I told you I was obsessed!

Don't fancy stranded mittens? How about thrummed mittens - they would certainly keep your hands toasty.

If you can't decide between gloves and mittens, how about some convertible mittens. I made these for a friend in Hipknits cashmere sock yarn from a book called "Not just more socks"

However there are loads of free patterns out there for convertible mitts, Broad Street Mittens from Knitty is one that springs to mind.

I have never knit gloves, so I can't comment on how annoying the fingers would be (the fingers on the convertible mitts were fairly annoying). I do have a thing for twisted stitches as well at the moment and think these Entangled Stitches gloves are amazing.

If fingers are too much for you. How about some Cranford Mitts?

Or the ever popular Fetching from Knitty

These were made in Posh Yarn aran weight Sophia (pure Cashmere) - a really treat.

So, what is your favourite winter warmer for your hands?

Do you have a favourite pattern or finished object?

What is your favourite yarn for gloves/mittens/handwarmers?

Are there any patterns out there you would love to own?

Or do you already have a winter warmer and you would like some mittens/gloves/handwarmers to match?

Post about "Warming your hands" on your blog and then link to it in the comments so we can all see what you like!

Friday Inspiration

2008-12-10T13:57:00.003Z

Rather than have a series of weekly questions Delle and I have decided on an inspirational weekly post; which we hope you guys will join in with.
The idea is each week we choose a winter warmer e.g. Keeping your hands warm, keeping your head warm etc etc and will give you our favourite patterns, favourite finished objects and general inspiration for your handmade item or kit. We hope you will post your favourites/insipration on your blog - this should give more clues to your pal about your likes/dislikes and also give others some new ideas too.

Round 3 Questionnaire

2008-12-01T22:53:00.003Z

This time, there is a different questionnaire, depending on whether you are taking part in the kit swap or the handmade item swap. Please make sure you post the correct questionnaire to your blog.

Kit Swap

What kind of kit are you interested in receiving?

Are you interested in any particular techniques?
Do you knit, crochet, or both?
What is your favourite colour?
What is your least favourite colour?
What’s your style? (elegant, traditional, glamourous, girly, natural, sporty, outgoing, etc.)
Do you have a favourite type of fiber or brand of yarn?
Do you have a least favourite type of yarn?
Do you do any other crafts?
Are there any knitting accessories you are interested in receiving?
What do you like to eat?
Any allergies/preferences (fiber-wise or treat-wise)?
Anything we missed that you’d like your partner to know?

Handmade Item Swap
What kind of items are you interested in receiving?
Do you knit, crochet, or both?
What is your favourite colour?
What is your least favourite colour?
What’s your style? (elegant, traditional, glamourous, girly, natural, sporty, outgoing, etc.)
Do you have a favourite type of fiber or brand of yarn?
Do you have a least favourite type of yarn?
Do you do any other crafts?
Are there any knitting accessories you are interested in receiving?
What do you like to eat?
Any allergies/preferences (fiber-wise or treat-wise)?
Anything we missed that you’d like your partner to know?

Winter Warmers Update

2008-11-24T13:29:00.003Z

We have had 24 people sign up for the swap so far. 14 of those have opted to make a winter warmer and 10 have chosen to put together and receive a winter warmers kit.

The new form makes it so much easier for us to manage sign ups - thanks to those of you who have had issues with it and persevered! Any problems give us a shout at ukswap@googlemail.com

Sign ups finish on 30th November at Midnight... so if you haven't already told all your knitting/blogging/Ravelry friends about this, please do so!

Round Three Winter Warmers Sign Up

2008-11-19T11:19:00.009Z

Swap Dates Calendar

2008-11-19T10:41:00.004Z

Wed 19th November 2008 - Sunday 30th November 2008 - Sign Ups open

Mon 24th November 2008 - Questionnaire released

Fri 5th December 2008- Questionnaire Due

Mon 1st December 2008 - Sun 7th December 2008- Matches go out

Mon 8th December 2008 - If you have not received your match, please contact hosts at ukswap@googlemail.com

Sun 14th December 2008 - First contact due

Mon 26th January 2009 - Sat 31st January 2009 - All packages to be sent this week

Mon 9th February 2009 - If you have not received your package, please contact hosts at ukswap@googlemail.com

Round 3 " Winter Warmers" Package Requirements

2008-11-19T10:32:00.004Z

The following are requirements for the swap package if/when you join the Swap. Please note that these are the minimum requirements. You are not expected to go over budget.
Please try to cater to your downstream pal's tastes as much as possible.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your hostesses at ukswap@googlemail.com.

• Minimum spending: £20 not including shipping.

This is a themed "Winter Warmers" swap with two options:

(a) Winter Warmers including a handmade item
A handmade winter warmers item. This can me made by you, or if time is short you are allowed to buy a handmade item that fits in with the theme of the swap from Etsy or a local craft fayre/market etc.
Please note that that a skein of yarn is NOT a required item in this package.

(b) Winter Warmers kit
Items (e.g. yarn, needles, pattern) to make up a winter warmers item.

Winter warmers items are hats, scarves, cowls, gloves, mittens, handwarmers, hot water bottle covers, slippers small throws or lapghans etc. You will be asked which of these items you would like to receive when you sign up.

Other items:
This list is not definitive but is written with the theme in mind: drinks (e.g. tea, coffee, hot Chocolate, mulled wine); a mug for the drinks, warming bath treats, winter spices, chocolate treats, snuggly yarn, winter patterns.

Round 3 "Winter Warmers" Obligations & Commitments

2008-11-19T10:28:00.002Z

• This is a UK only swap. You must be living in the UK with a valid address (not P.O. Box) to send/receive packages.
• The swap is scheduled to take place in January. Sign-ups open November 19th and will be open until 30th November. Matches go out the first week of December. Packages must be sent during the last week of January.
• This is not a Ravelry-based swap. You do not need to be on Ravelry to join the UK Swap. However there is a Ravelry group for this swap.
• Having a blog is STRONGLY suggested. This is the perfect way to post your Questionnaire and link back to here! Also, when the list of participants go up, your name will link to your blog. This is a great way for your spoiler to get to know you.
• Because blogs are not required, an anonymous email IS required. You will need to provide the email for sign-ups so head on over to any email program and create an email that doesn't give away who you are! Also make sure that when you send emails your real name does not come up. If you would like to send a test email to us at ukswap@googlemail.comto check, we will email you back and let you know.
• Those who do not have blogs, will be asked to join a communal blog here at Blogspot. Blogspot allows multiple posters to a single blog so you will need a Google Account. At this blog you will be able to post your questionnaire, and your swap swag. If you would like to create your own blog for the swap, please do.
• Keep in contact with your partner. Contact your downstream pal at least once a week. You can send them an email, an ecard, or comment on their blog. Remember to stay anonymous! Keeping who you are a secret is the most fun. We realise this is holiday season, if you are going away please let both your upstream and downstream swap pals know. Why not send them a postcard whilst you are away?
•We are hoping to get everyone to send their parcels within the same week (the last week of January), however if you want to join the swap but need to send and receive before that (eg because of holidays), let us know so it can be accommodated.
• There will be games and contests during the swap. These are optional, but the more people that play, the more fun we all can have. Some of them will be blog-based and others will not. Hopefully there will be something for everyone!

Questionnaire Results.

2008-10-06T14:53:00.002+01:00

Thanks to all 25 people who answered the questonnaire about round two. I thought it would be interesting for you to see some of the results:

Did you have a good swap experience in the UK Swap Round two?
The overall consensus was that it was an enjoyable swap.

Do you have any comments about the weekly questions
e.g. timing, appropriateness, whether you enjoyed then or not
It seems people enjoy reading the answers to the weekly questions even if they don't always answer them. They were seen as a useful insight into your pals likes and dislikes. Some people felt they should have been more knitting related, which we can certainly fix for next time.

Do you have any suggested improvements for the next round of UK Swap?
Setting an upper limit on pricing
Making yarn compulsory in the swap package
Having a question about "yarns you would like to try" in the questionnaire

Would you participate in a swap that has a handmade item as a requirement for the swap parcel?
Yes - 88%
No - 12%

Do you prefer your swap pal to be *

Anonymous 48%
I want to know who my pal is 2%
I don't mind 48%

Do you prefer a "themed" swap? *

Yes 28%
No 4%
Don't Mind 64%
Other:

What is your preferred budget for a swap? *
(Not including postage)

£10 0
£15 8%
£20 64%
£25 24%
£30 4%
Other:

Would you prefer a strict list of items that have to be included in a parcel? *
Yes 16%
No 80&
Other: One person said there should be some guidelines but not a strict list.

Do you have any ideas for future themes?
Seasonal
Colour
Favourite Books/Movies
Favourite period in History
Favourite Country
New Year, New technique
Girls night out
Science Fiction (alien theme)
British Themes - St George/St Patrick/ St Andrew/ St David
Best of British
Warm Hands
Home swap (things for the home, not houses!)
Gadget Swap
Recycling
Ready Steady Cook/Scrapheap challenge

Is there any additional information you would like to see posted in the swap questionnaire?

Do you need stitch markers?
Separate out favourite colours from preferred yarn colours (as you may not always knit for yourself)
More along the "what kind of yarn would you be"
What haven't you tried that you would like to try?

Would you prefer a set date/week in which the parcel should be sent? *
Yes, a set date 56%
No, I prefer to send at my leisure 40&
Other: , one wanted a window of 1 month,

Treasure Hunt 2 Winner

2008-09-05T11:37:00.003+01:00

The winner of the Treasure Hunt, part 2 is...

Jacqui!

The prize is:

4 balls of Knitpicks Wool of the Andes in Blackberry.

It hasn't actually arrived yet (it should be some time next week), after which I'll get it sent over.

Congratulations Jacqui!

Question of the week winners

2008-09-02T12:20:00.002+01:00

The comments have been totalled up and I have drawn the winners for the "Question of the week" competition.
Congratulations to the winners, listed below, I will be in touch soon!

Woolly Workshop - Denise needles - Maureen

Natural Dye Studio - 2 skeins of Dazzle BFL Sock Yarn - Hannah

Skein Queen - 1 skein sock yarn and stitch markers - Cat

Wild Fire Fibres - 1 skein sock yarn, stitch markers and dpns - Nicola

Socktopus - 1 skein yarn, rule - Josephine

Sponsor Spotlight

2008-08-29T11:03:00.004+01:00

This is our final Spotlight, and it's a doozy. I still can't quite believe how cool this prize is. From the Woolly Workshop we have:

Yes, that is a set of pink Denise needles! They range from 3.75mm to 10mm. This is the first time I've seen Denise needles up close. They clip together in a really neat way, and I really like the way the cables can be extended by clipping them together.

Sponsor Spotlight

2008-08-28T10:28:00.003+01:00

This is our fifth Spotlight, Socktopus!

We have a skein of Pagewood Farm hand dyed sock yarn, in the colourway Vineyard Blues. It is a soft, squidgy combination of 70% Merino, 20% Bamboo and 10% Nylon. We also have a Socktopus rule. They are made by Karatstix, and are even cuter in person than they are in the picture (which is pretty darn cute!).

Sponsor Spotlight

2008-08-27T12:51:00.003+01:00

Today for you, we have Skein Queen.

We have a delightfully squishy skein of Plushness, which is 80% lambswool, 10% angora and 10% cashmere, which you can really tell when you give it a squeeze (in the interests of making this post only, of course). It feels really luxurious. We also have a set of stitch markers, which previously have only been available to members of the sock club, so you're getting something really exclusive here. They aren't very clear in the photos (my husband doesn't understand the concept of stitchmarkers or why I'd be wanting to display them), but there are 4, they are one each of green, blue, red and purple, and each has a pearl in the centre. They are beautiful and very dainty.

Treasure Hunt 2

2008-08-22T22:38:00.002+01:00

This treasure hunt takes place on the sites of our sponsors. The closing date is 29 August 2008.

1) Which sponsor sells a 100% Bison down yarn?

2) Who sells yarns with the names 'Entwine' and 'Endure'?

3) Which sponsor sells the 'Ribbon of Hope' sock pattern, in aid of Cancer Research?

4) Who sells Mili knitting bags?

5) In whose store will you find Fish and Penguins?

6) Which sponsor sells a colourway named after one of the swap hosts?

Please email your answers to the swap email address. Do not post them on your blog.

Good luck! The winner and the prize (which will be provided by me, and isn't something you can buy in the UK), will be announced shortly after the closing date.

And the Winner is...

2008-08-22T16:45:00.002+01:00

The winner of our Treasure Hunt has been chosen. I did think about using a random number generator, or something, but instead I used the slightly more old fashioned method of pieces of paper with names on, which I threw on the floor and allowed my one year old to pick. He thought it was great fun, and spent about the next hour picking 'winners' for me, however, the first winner, and new owner of that set of bags by NicsKnots is...

Fiona

Congratulations Fiona!

For those of you who weren't successful, there will be a second, smaller Treasure Hunt posted later today.

Sponsor Spotlight

2008-08-22T07:59:00.003+01:00

Our third sponsor is: NicsKnots.

The photo here is just of an example of the prize, which is a custom made set of knitting bag, project bag and knitting needle roll, made in the material of your choice. As can be seen from looking at her Etsy shop, Nic has a great eye for fabric and uses a wide range of different styles to great effect.

Sponsor Spotlight

2008-08-18T14:12:00.004+01:00

Here is our second Sponsor Spotlight, Wild Fire Fibres.

Vikki has put together a sock knitting kit for her prize.

We have here a set of 2.5mm Prym bamboo dpns, a small organza bag, containing 3 very pretty red stitch markers (sorry they don't show up well in the picture, I left my husband being artistic and it didn't occur to him to get detail) and a beautiful skein of 100% Blue Faced Leicester sock yarn. The yarn is Machine washable and 400 yards, so plenty for a good pair of socks. The colourway is called Blueberry Muffin, a lovely varigated range of purples. I think it looks a bit pinkier in the photo than in person. This yarn feels really smooth and the colours really are gorgeous.

Question of the week #8

2008-08-17T11:16:00.002+01:00

I'm a bit late this week, sorry!

What three items would you want with you on a desert island and why?

Remember you have just two weeks to get your parcels finished and in the post. I know some people have already received some amazing parcels - check out the Ravelry group if you want to see more pictures.

I'm putting the finishing touches to mine today. I should be mailed off to my pal next week sometime.

Ruth
x

Question of the week #7

2008-08-08T15:03:00.002+01:00

Films is the topic this week:

Do you prefer to watch films at home or at the cinema?
What is the last film you saw?
Have you seen any films more than 10 times? If so which ones and why.
What film do you recommend that people should see?
If you could be any character from a film who would it be?

Please leave a link to your post in the comments, if you answer more than one question in the same post, don't forget to leave the link in all the relevant comment sections.

Also, don't forget the Treasure Hunt competition - the deadline for entries is Sunday at Midnight.

We will be drawing a winner next week.

Treasure Hunt reminder

2008-08-06T07:26:00.001+01:00

Hello Swappers,

I hope everything is going well for you all. I know some of you have already received your parcels - I hope you are enjoying them. Don't forget to post to your blog when you receive your package and tell us how the items you received relate to the photo you chose.

As a reminder, all parcels should be sent by 1st September.

Another reminder for you all is that the treasure hunt competition ends at midnight on Sunday (10th August) so you have 5 more days to be entered into the draw for lots of lovely goodies. We have only had a handful of entries so far, so you really do stand a good chance of winning! The questions and the rules are here

Let me know if you have any problems or issues with the swap.

Happy Swapping everyone.

Ruth

It's Treasure Hunt Time

2008-07-25T14:57:00.002+01:00

Rather than a weekly question this week we are starting the big competition of this swap - the Blog Treasure Hunt. This is a great chance to get to know your fellow swappers, to do a little detective work to try and work out who your swap pal is (if you don't know already!) . Browsing other people's blogs and Ravelry profiles may also give some great ideas about what to put in your swap package.

The best part though is that there is a fabulous prize, more details from Delle very very soon.

Here are the rules:
All the answers can be found within participant’s blogs or Ravelry profiles - links to all of the participants are in the righthand border of the blog. Don't forget to check the UK Swappers blog too.
You can use yourself - for as many times as applicable.
You do not need to rush to send in your answers, simply complete the list and email it to ukswap@googlemail.com before the deadline and you will be entered into a Random Draw for the great prize.

Deadline: Midnight on Sunday 10th August 2008.

Here are the questions

1. Name 3 participants with dogs
2. Name 2 participants who live in Scotland.
3. Name 2 participants who crochet - post a link to one of their crochet projects for an extra point.
4. Name 3 participants who listen to Podcasts.
5. Name 2 participants who have taken part in Tour de Fleece
6. Name a participant with an advert on Ravelry
7. Name 5 participants who like "Staying In"
8. Name the participant who loves "The Flumps"
9. Name 3 participants who like herbal tea
10. Name 4 participants who dislike novelty yarn
11. Name 3 participants who have children
12. Name 2 participants whose favourite colour is red.
13. Name the participant who has grown an artichoke.
14. Name 2 participants who have knitted lace stoles in the last 6 weeks.
15. Name 2 participants who loath Big Brother

What are you waiting for? Get hunting!

Question of the Week # 6

2008-07-18T10:40:00.002+01:00

The topic is music this week:
Of all the bands/artists in your cd/record collection, which one do you own the most albums by?What was the last song you listened to?
What’s your favorite local band?
What’s the worst CD/record/etc. you’ve ever bought?
What was the first single/album you ever bought?

Don't forget to leave a link to your post in the comments, if you answer more than one question in the same post, don't forget to leave the link in all the relevant comment sections

Contact reminder

2008-07-13T12:32:00.002+01:00

Can I remind you all to keep in regular contact with your swap partner. Ideally you should be emailing at least once a week, though we understand that this is holiday season, so some of you might be away and miss a week (though if this is the case, could you let your partner know).

If you haven't done it for a while, go email your partner today!

Question of the Week #5

2008-07-11T16:57:00.002+01:00

Quick fire questions this week, based on a game I've played with friends whilst on (very long) car journeys!
Choose one - don't think just choose...
1. Stop or go?
2. Going out or Staying in?
3. Small town or big city?
4. Happy or sad?
5. Straights or Circulars?
6. Red or Blue?
7. Seaside or countryside?
8. Fish or chips?
9. Surprises or plans?
10. Wine or beer?
11. Sweaters or cardigans?
12. Pizza or Pasta?
13. Chopsticks or fork?
14. Early Bird or Night Owl?
15. Knitting or crochet?
16. Hot or cold?

And now for the picture part of this quiz (copied from a meme that's going around at the moment)
a. Type your answer to each of the questions below into Flickr Search.
b. Using only the first page, pick an image
c. Copy and paste each of the URLs for the images into fd’s mosaic maker.

Then upload the mosaic to your blog!

Don't forget to leave a link to your post in the comments, if you answer more than one question in the same post, don't forget to leave the link in all the relevant comment sections.

Question of the week #4

2008-07-04T21:24:00.002+01:00

A knitting theme this week...

What is your favourite thing that you have knit? (It might not be your favourite thing to wear but it was the most enjoyable to knit).

What is the worst thing you've ever knit?

What are your favourite knitblogs?

What is the most amazing knitted thing you have seen (This Ravelry thread might help)

What is your favourite knitted item to wear? Post a picture if you can.

Don't forget to leave a link to your post in the comments, if you answer more than one question in the same post, don't forget to leave the link in all the relevant comment sections.

Sponsor Spotlight

2008-07-03T20:17:00.004+01:00

This is our first Sponsor Spotlight, with a wonderful gift from Amanda at The Natural Dye Studio.

We have not one, but two skeins of her speciality, Bluefaced Leicester Dazzle Sock Yarn.

We have one each of the Heatwave and Tropical Mist colourways.

This is the first time I've actually touched BFL yarn, and it is lovely and soft and squidgy. It's easy to see why this is Amanda's speciality. I will definitely be adding some to my stash in the near future.

Question of the Week #3

2008-06-27T20:37:00.003+01:00

I nearly forgot I was in charge of this this week! This week's question is about probably my favourite thing after knitting.

Is there a TV programme you watch religiously?

What TV programme(s) do you avoid like the plague?

Is there a TV programme that you find works particularly well for knitting along to?

What was/is your favourite kids TV programme?

Don't forget to leave a link to your post in the comments, if you answer more than one question in the same post, don't forget to leave the link in all the relevant comment sections.

Coming this weekend, I'll be starting the spotlights for our fabulous prizes (we have some very generous sponsors).

Question of the Week #2

2008-06-19T22:01:00.003+01:00

It's that time of the week again. Don't forget that TODAY is the deadline for contacting your pal.
If you haven't heard from your pal by MONDAY please drop Delle or I an email to let us know.
Here is the question for week two....
Which three guests (alive or not) would you invite to a dinner party and why?

Emails

2008-06-18T13:15:00.003+01:00

As we are aware that a few emails have been going AWOL, I wanted to let you all know that Ruth and I have emailed you all today. If you haven't heard from us, please could you check your junk mail folder.

Matches are out!

2008-06-13T14:44:00.002+01:00

Delle and I have finished sending out the matches for the UK Swap. If you haven't got your match, please check your spam folders (as it seems some of our emails have ended up there). If you still can't find the email then please email us at ukswap@googlemail.com or PM us on Ravelry.

Remember, you must contact your pal by the 20th June and your identity is meant to be a secret - so be sure to use your anonymous email address. If you want to double check that your anonymous email address doesn't display your name then feel free to email us at ukswap@googlemail.com

Question of the Week #1

2008-06-13T14:35:00.003+01:00

Saturday 14th June is World Wide Knitting in Public day.
What are you doing to participate in WWKIP day on Saturday?
What is the strangest place you have ever knit?
Picture Bonus: Post a picture of you knitting in public on Saturday, or if you don't get a chance to knit in public on Saturday, take a place of your favourite place to knit at home.

Remember to leave the link to the exact post with your answer in the comments in order to be entered into the competition (how to find your permalink). If you don't have a blog but still want to participate, you're welcome to use the UKSwappers blog!

Question of the Week - The Rules

2008-06-13T14:19:00.004+01:00

The Question of the Week Contest is really simple; every Friday Delle or I will post a "Question of the Week" for you to answers on your blog. The questions have been designed to give your pal more information about you and to encourage people to post regularly on their blog. If you don't have a blog, you can post your answer to the UK Swappers blog. There will also be an optional photograph theme to each question.
This is an optional part of the swap - it's a contest (with prizes) and you have the whole week to participate.
If you decide to participate - you need to leave a comment on the UK Swap blog post containing the question and a link to the exact post in the comments (how to find your permalink). You can join in once, twice, or every week but you must leave a link to your Question Post each time.
When "question of the week" ends, all the people who blogged will be entered in a contest, the more questions you answer, the more chance you have of winning.
Delle and I will be announcing prizes over the next couple of week - with thanks going to our Sponsors for the prizes.

Questionnaire Deadline

2008-06-09T15:37:00.002+01:00

Hello Swappers,

A reminder that questionnaires are due to be posted by midnight tonight (Monday 9th June).
If you haven't posted your questionnaire on your blog or the UKSwappers2 blog then please do so by midnight tonight.
Delle and I have split the group in two and will be sending out matches over the course of the next week. I spent a couple of hours last night hunting around blogs and ravelry to find some good matches for my group; before I knew it it was way past my bedtime!

And the winner is....

2008-06-03T21:32:00.002+01:00

Sign ups for the swap ended yesterday. We have 46 participants. If you have signed up please check to make sure your name is displayed under the "Participants" in the side bar. If not, drop us and email.

The pimp the swap competition also ended yesterday. I asked by lovely BF to pick a winner...

He did a very good job and chose:

Well done Vikki!
The yarn will be in the post to you later on this week.

Delle and I will spend the next week reading your blogs and Ravelry profiles so we can match you up with the perfect pal. If you haven't posted your questionnaire yet you have until Midnight on MONDAY 9TH JUNE. If you haven't posted your questionnaire by then you will be dropped from the swap.

If you don't have a blog then you should have been invited to contribute to the UK Swappers 2 blog. You can post your questionnaire for all to see there. If you haven't received an invite or need some help in posting then please drop us a line.
If you need inspiration, or want to get to know your fellow swappers better then check out the questionnaires that have already been posted - there are some great picture choices out there.
Delle and I will be distributing matches the week commencing the 9th June. Everyone should receive their match by 15th June.

Only 5 days left to sign up!

2008-05-27T14:13:00.002+01:00

Sign ups are progressing nicely, we have 35 people signed up for the swap so far. Sign ups close next Monday, 2nd June. This also marks the end of the "Pimp the Swap" competition - so if you haven't "pimped" and would like to win a lovely skein of Socks that Rock, go along to this post and join in!

If you have signed up and are eager to get to know your fellow swappers, why not browse through their blogs or Ravelry profiles? - They are linked in the side bar under Participants. I am loving some of the photos in the questionnaires.
If you haven't posted your questionnaire, you have a little time yet. The deadline is 7th June. However it will make it much easier for Delle and I to match you all if we have the answers to your questionnaire before the 7th!

For the swappers without blogs, your Ravelry profile is an excellent way of sharing more information about yourself. Here is a link to my profile as an example. To edit, I click the "edit your profile" link under my name in the top left hand corner.

Round Two Questionnaire

2008-05-19T13:40:00.004+01:00

Sign ups start today and the questionnaire for the second round of the UK Swap is below.

If you have a blog - please post it to your blog. If you do not have a blog, please complete it in a word document and then email it to ukswap@googlemail.com

The questionnaire is designed to give your swap pal ideas for swap items; what you like, what you don't like, so please try to provide as much information as possible.

It must be done/posted by Monday, June 9th. If you have not posted/emailed the questionnaire by this date you may be removed from the swap.

Part One: Crafting
Do you knit, crochet, or both?
What do you like to make?
Do you have a favourite project?
Do you have a favourite type of fiber or brand of yarn?
Do you have a least favourite type of yarn?
Do you do any other crafts?
Do you knit in public? If so where do you like knitting and what is your "portable" project?
What do you carry your "portable" knitting in?
Are there any knitting gifts (book, toy, yarn, item, tool) that you have been lusting over?

Part Two: Your Favourites
What is your favourite colour?
What is your least favourite colour?
What scents/smells do you like? What don’t you like?
How do you like to pamper yourself? (bubble bath, hand creams, massage, manicure)
What goodies to you like to eat? (chocolate, biscuits, sweets,crisps etc)
Do you prefer tea or coffee while you knit? Any particular kind?
Do you listen to/watch anything while you knit? (TVshow-Along, movies, music, podcasts, audiobooks)

Part Three: About you, Living & Past-times
If you were a specific kind of yarn, which brand and kind of yarn would you be (and why)?
Where do you live in the UK? (General idea not address)
Have you always lived here, or did you grow up somewhere else?
What is your favourite place in the UK?
If you could visit anywhere in the world, where would you go?
What other hobbies do you have?

Part Four: The Theme
As part of this swap we are asking you to post (or link to) a picture or photograph you like. Your swap pal will use the photo as a basis for a themed item or parcel.
It could be of a specific item, e.g. Jellybeans, an Alpaca, a rainbow or a scene e.g. sunset, beach, woodland or anything else you can think of! Please add a few words to explain why you have chosen the photo if you think this is appropriate.
It could be a photo you have taken or a picture you have found on the internet. Please note - if the picture is not yours please ensure you seek permission from the owner before posting it on your blog. Alternatively, you can link to the original picture.

Final Part:
Any allergies/preferences (fiber-wise or treat-wise)?
Anything we missed that you’d like your partner to know?

Sign Up Information

2008-05-16T12:33:00.002+01:00

• Sign-ups open Monday May 19th, 2008.
• Send the following information to the hosts at ukswap@googlemail.com
• Emails sent to any of the hosts individual addresses will not be accepted
• You will know your application has been received when your name and blog link appears on the Swap Blog under Participants
• Sign-ups close Monday June 2nd
• Questionnaire must be posted by Monday 9th June, however the sooner you post the questionnaire the easier it will be for us to match you. The questionnaire will be released on Monday 19th May.
• Being an Angel means that if someone’s partner doesn’t send a package or disappears entirely (knock on wood) that you are willing to step in and make a “rescue package” to send asap.
• Please remember you must be resident in the UK (apart from holidays) for the duration of this swap (June - 1st September)

Full Name:
Email:
Anonymous Email (Required):
Post Address:
Blog Address (if applicable):
Ravelry Name (if applicable):
Other Interests (this will help us when matching people):
Are handmade gifts ok?
Is your home smoke free and pet free?
Do you have any allergies to pets or smoke?
Are you willing to be an angel?
Have you participated in a swap before?
Are you willing to send to someone who does not have a blog?
Will you be away for more than 5 days from 9th June - 1st September? If so, could you let us know when.
Are you going to have more than one address (eg students heading home for the summer, people moving house)?

Round Two - Pimp the Swap Contest

2008-05-13T23:51:00.004+01:00

The purpose of the contest is to spread the word about the UK Swap and generate interest on the Swap Blog. Anyone (living anywhere) can promote the swap and participate in (and win) the contest. However, only those living in the UK will be able to join the swap.

Pimp the Swap on your blog or website. Post a message and a button telling everyone that we’re doing a UK based Knitter’s Swap from June - September. Tell them Sign-ups begin on May 19th, 2008 and close on June 2nd.

Ways you will be entered in the draw for a fabulous yarny prize:

Posting a message on your blog (make sure to leave a comment here telling us you did so!)
Having other people comment here that they found out about the Swap from your blog/website. (One extra entry for every person that says you sent them).
Note: Hosts will not be entered into the contest, but don’t let that deter you from telling us where you found out about the swap!

The Prize?
One skein of Blue Moon Fiber Arts Socks That Rock Lightweight in colourway January One.

Now, go forth my yarny-friends and PIMP THE SWAP!

P.S. Contest begins today (Wednesday 14th May) and ends Monday 2nd June at midnight! (When sign ups close). The winner of the Pimp the Swap contest will be announced before matches go out in the second week of June.

Round Two - Calendar of Dates

2008-05-13T23:43:00.002+01:00

All “due” dates are Mondays (so that you have the weekend before as prep-time). For now the contest and game dates are a secret!! We have good things planned I promise!

Monday May 19th– Sign-ups open and questionnaire released

Monday June 2nd – Sign-ups close

Monday June 9th – Questionnaire due

Second Week of June 9th-15th– Matches go out

Monday June 16th– If you have not received your match, please contact hosts at ukswap@googlemail.com

Friday June 20th First contact due

Monday September 1st – Packages sent by

Monday September 15th– If you have not received your package, please contact hosts at ukswap@googlemail.com

Round Two - Package Requirements

2008-05-13T23:33:00.003+01:00

The following are requirements of the package if/when you join the Swap (sign-ups open May 19th). Please note that these are the minimum requirements. You are not expected to go over budget, or include all of the items suggested. There are links in the sidebar to help you with ideas and gifts to include. Please try to cater to your downstream pal's tastes as much as possible. If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact your hostesses at ukswap@googlemail.com.

• Minimum spending: £20 not including shipping.

As this is a themed swap there is one essential item:

• Something that relates to your swap pals chosen theme picture that they posted in their questionnaire. It could be yarn, a pattern, a book, a new knitting tool, treats, something hand-made/hand-knit for your partner or anything else you can think of! Remember to choose something they would like. You can send a themed package, or just include one or two items that relate to the picture your swap pal has chosen.

Optional items:

• Enough yarn for a small project (one hank/one skein/approximately 100-200 yards). Please ensure it is something your pal will like and use. It can be from your stash as long as it is new and has a label (or card if hand-spun/dyed).

• Yummy treats to eat or drink. Check out their preferences and try to send them something they will enjoy. (chocolate, tea, hot cocoa, coffee, biscuits)

• A new item to pamper/play with (soaps, bubble bath, candles, funny-joke toy, knick-knacks)

Don’t forget to double-check any allergies!

Round Two - Obligations and Commitments

2008-05-13T23:25:00.003+01:00

• This is a UK only swap. You must be living in the UK with a valid address (not P.O. Box) to send/receive packages.

• The swap is scheduled to take place from June to September. Sign-ups open May 19th and will be open for two weeks. Matches go out the second week of June. Packages must be sent by September 1st.

• This is a secret swap. Take a moment to create an anonymous email so you don’t accidentally give away your identity. Also make sure that when you send emails your real name does not come up. If you would like to send a test email to us at ukswap@googlemail.com to check, we will email you back and let you know.

• This is not a Ravelry-based swap. You do not need to be on Ravelry to join the UK Swap. However there is a Ravelry group for this swap.

• Having a blog is STRONGLY suggested. This is the perfect way to post your Questionnaire and link back to here! Also, when the list of participants go up, your name will link to your blog. This is a great way for your spoiler to get to know you.

• Because blogs are not required, an anonymous email IS required. You will need to provide the email for sign-ups so head on over to any email program and create an email that doesn't give away who you are!

• For those that do not have blogs, they will be asked to join a communal blog here at Blogspot. Blogspot allows multiple posters to a single blog so you will need a Google Account. At this blog you will be able to post your questionnaire, and your swap swag. If you would like to create your own blog for the swap, please do.

• Keep in contact with your partner. Contact your downstream pal at least once a week. You can send them an email, an ecard, or comment on their blog. Remember to stay anonymous! Keeping who you are a secret is the most fun. We realise this is holiday season, if you are going away please let both your upstream and downstream swap pals know. Why not send them a postcard whilst you are away?

• You have over two months (after matches are received) to put together a great package suited to your pal’s theme picture, tastes and preferences.

• There will be games and contests during the swap. These are optional, but the more people that play, the more fun we all can have. Some of them will be blog-based and others will not. Hopefully there will be something for everyone!

I've Been Spoiled!

2008-03-31T19:41:00.000+01:00

****This post has been STICKIED****
Scroll down to read the most recent post(s)

Hey everyone! In an effort to keep track of who has recieved their packages - please post here once you receive yours!

Don't forget to post pictures on your blog for all of us to live vicariously through you... and remember to thank your spoiler too. :)

Thanks!

Packages Not Received?

2008-03-31T13:45:00.002+01:00

Today is the deadline for receiving your package. If you have not received your package and not heard from your swap partner, please contact your host.

Monica - monnibo AT hotmail DOT com
Vikki - handmade_with_care AT hotmail DOT com

Packages should have been sent by now

2008-03-18T11:36:00.002Z

If anyone has NOT sent a package by now, please contact me ASAP! This is to ensure that everyone receives a package! Thank you.

Quiet here

2008-03-13T15:59:00.001Z

It's been quiet here in Blogland... but I've been reading everyone's blogs and it looks like there has been a lot of packages received. Great to hear and I love seeing all the lovely gushing photos!

BIG REMINDER: PACKAGES MUST BE SENT BY MONDAY, MARCH 17TH. If there will be ANY problem with this, please email your swap hostess (who sent you your match) and let us know.

Topic of the Week: Winners!

2008-03-04T12:03:00.005Z

First of all, thank you to everyone who participated. There were over 80 entries in just 6 weeks. Amazing! Second of all, I'm sorry that I couldn't extend the topics longer but with moving house... there is a lot to pack and I didn't want to misplace the prizes.

Now... onto the winners. Every time someone left a comment, the comment came to the UK Swap Email. If it was a Weekly Topic, it went into a special folder. I then used a Random Number Generator (aka boyfriend - "pick 3 numbers") and counted up to whichever entry was that number.

THIRD PRIZE... "The Sheepie Package" with Sheep Tape Measurer from Purlescence and Sheep Stitch Markers from VikingKnits (now Wild Fire Fibres) and some goodies from me ... goes to... ANG!

SECOND PRIZE... A Gift Certificate to Shunklies Etsy Shop ... goes to... SARETH!

FIRST PRIZE... The "Purple Package" including a Bag from RuinMe Designs, Yarn and stitch markers from VikingKnits (now Wild Fire Fibres), and some goodies from me ... goes to ... CLAIRE!

Congratulations to our winners and thank you everyone for participating!! I hope you enjoyed playing even if you didn't win. And hope everything is going well with putting together packages and stalking your partner. Don't forget that weekly contact is advised!!

Congratulations Vikki!

2008-02-29T18:49:00.004Z

Vikki (formerly of VikingKnits) has just launched her new Etsy store - Wild Fire Fibres!

End of Topics of the Week

2008-02-28T21:58:00.003Z

Hello Swappers!! Hope you're having tons of fun shopping!

I know this may seem sudden, but I'm going to end Topics of the Week a week early. This is because we're moving house next weekend so I want to get the prizes shipped off before we move.

I'm going to leave the Last Topic (#6) open until Monday March 3rd at 11:30pm. Then I will use a Random Draw to pick the First, Second, and Third place winners!

Make sure to leave your permalink to the blog post in the Comments. If you blog two topics in one post please put the same permalink in BOTH Comments because I count up the applications and pick the winner out of the comments received.

For Example: If I blogged Topics #5 and Topics #6 in on post and the permalink was something like: http://www.myblog.com/2008/swap-topics-5-6, I would leave this link in the Comments of both Topic #5 and Topic #6 to make sure I got entered, not just one or the other.

Revealing VikingKnits' Donation

2008-02-27T22:49:00.003Z

Co-Host Vikki is the creator of VikingKnits, but will soon be relaunching herself as Wild Fire Fibres at her new Etsy Store! Stay tuned to her blog or the store for new details!

Vikki donated a bunch of lovely goodies...

3 skeins of "Cranberry" colourway

2 skeins in the "Sugarplum" colourway

Lovely "bauble" stitch markers

Adorable Sheepie stitch markers

So Sweet Strawberry stitch markers!

Treasure Hunt Winner!!

2008-02-26T12:21:00.002Z

Congratulations to JEN who (by Random Number Generator) won the Blog Treasure Hunt!! I'll get that in the mail this week Jen.

Thank you to everyone who participated!! I hope you had fun. There were a number of possible answers, but I think that over half of the participants got the BONUS Question. In case you didn't and were curious... it was Caroline's Cardigan!

Treasure Hunt Almost Over!!

2008-02-25T12:37:00.001Z

Is that prize not tempting enough?? You have until TONIGHT at 11:30pm to send in your submissions for the Treasure Hunt!!

Topic of the Week #6: Swapping

2008-02-22T21:28:00.000Z

Sorry for the late update here, we've got friends from Manchester visiting us in London for the weekend.

Q: Have you done a swap before (doesn't have to be a knitting swap)? What do you like best about swapping? Are there any personal "requirements" that a swap has to have before you will join?

The Treasure You Could Win......

2008-02-22T10:57:00.003Z

Here is THE TREASURE HUNT PRIZE!

Namaste Needles from Foreign Strand
Yarn and stitch markers from VikingKnits
Bag by RuinMe Designs
Bath goodies from me

Revealing Foreign Strand's Donation

2008-02-19T15:58:00.002Z

Luciana (who is participating in the swap) was kind enough to send a very valuable donation from her company, Foreign Strand. She sent these gorgeous glass Namaste needles.

If you're looking for hard-to-find products from around the world here in the UK, I would recommend checking out Foreign Strand. Yarns from the USA, gorgeous needles, bags, stitch markers, and other accessories to keep your organised, as well as loads of magazines! If you're already familiar a fan - there is a Foreign Strand Ravelry group that you can join!

Reminder: Keep in Contact with your Downstream Pal!

2008-02-16T21:02:00.004Z

Hey Everyone -- This is a strong reminder to make sure that you contact your Downstream Pal (who you are spoiling) at least once a week!

Think about it as a two-way thing - you want to hear from who is spoiling you, so keep the courtesy and contact whoever you're spoiling! This can be ecards, anonymous emails, or anonymous blog comments.

123 Greetings (free e-cards)
E-cards from Lion Brand Yarn (thanks for the link Anne)
Knitting e-postcards

P.S. Keep those Treasure Hunts coming in!!

Topic of the Week #5: Anticipation

2008-02-15T09:45:00.000Z

This week's topic was inspired by a discussion in the Ravelry group. (Thanks ladies!)

What kind of Spoilee are you? Are you paranoid that it's not being sent, or lost in the post? Do you want it to arrive quickly? OR Do you enjoy the anticipation? Sitting and pondering when it will arrive... and anxiously waiting for it, close to the deadline?

Blog Treasure Hunt List

2008-02-13T11:07:00.003Z

If you need to refresh your memory, here are the rules.

BLOG TREASURE HUNT LIST

1. Name 3 participants who are “Knitting Daily”

2. Name 4 participants who live in Cambridge.

3. Name someone who is learning a new craft (and what the craft is).

4. Name 3 participants who listen to Podcasts.

5. Name 2 participants who have taken part in Knitting/Crochet Olympics.

6. Name 5 participants with pets (and what kind of pets)

7. Name a participant who bicycles

8. Name 2 participants in the Hot Cocoa Swap.

9. Name the participant who is allergic to gluten.

10. Name 7 participants who dislike novelty yarn

11. Name 3 participants who knit socks

12. Name 5 participants whose favourite colour is purple

13. Name a participant who embroiders

14. Name a participant with their own Etsy shop.

15. Where is “home” for your hostess?

Bonus: Identify which participant knit this, and what it is! (Hint: this is part of an FO)

THE BIG GAME & CONTEST!

2008-02-10T11:52:00.001Z

Sometime this week (keep your eyes peeled) we will be starting a new contest! It will be the "big game" and the main contest (the weekly topics are just a little fun). Here is the explanation and rules for the Blog Treasure Hunt!!!

How it Works:

We will be posting a Treasure Hunt List. You will have to (if you chose to participate) find as many answers as you can and email it to us at ukswap@hotmail.co.uk.

All the answers can be found within participant’s blogs. You do not need to be able to access Ravelry profiles.
You do not need to rush to send in your answers, simply complete the list and email it to ukswap@hotmail.co.uk before the deadline and you will be entered into a Random Draw for a great prize!
Deadline: February 25, 2008, 11:30pm GMT
EDITED TO ADD: Yes you can use yourself - for as many times as applicable.

Everyone has Contact?

2008-02-10T10:58:00.000Z

This is just to double-check that everyone has made contact and has had contact in both directions? This means that you have anonymously contacted YOUR pal, and someone (mysterious) has randomly contacted YOU.

If not, please post here and we'll look into it!

Revealing RuinMe's Donation

2008-02-09T15:08:00.000Z

Sareth of RuinMe Designs creates 'alternative' alternative clothing and accessories.

For the swap, she donated two handmade bags, one big one and one small. The small one has a little purse clipped on the inside.

Topic of the Week #4: Valentine's Day

2008-02-08T12:35:00.000Z

I know this isn't knitting related, but I thought I'd ask you to share your favourite Valentine's Day memory, or your current plans for this year. Just to share some love. :)

Have a great weekend everyone! (And yes I am still internetless, poor me!)

Monica has no internet

2008-02-05T14:09:00.000Z

Hey everyone. Just a quick update from work here (I got an internship for the week)... I have no internet at home. I will try to answer emails on my lunch break with my BF at home looking at the swap list... but for the moment, things will suck in this department.

I think I've responded to all the "missing match" emails... I'm beginning to hate Hotmail - it never seems to send my email, but as Charlie pointed out, certainly sends all the Penis-Enlargement and Viagra emails!

Everyone Got Matches?

2008-02-03T18:52:00.000Z

If you have not got your match by now, email Vikki (handmade_with_care@hotmail.com) or I (ukswap@hotmail.co.uk) and we will make sure it gets resent.

Someone didn't get their match and wasn't sure if they were even in the swap. I mentioned earlier the "confirmation" was your name being added to the blog. But I will repeat for good measure: If your name is on the sidebar, you are part of the swap. So if anyone else is on the sidebar and hasn't received their match, email us.

There was also a question on Ravelry about the Topics of the Week contest. It's a bunch of questions so you get multiple entries to a final draw for First Second and Third prizes. Over the next couple weeks I will be "featuring" the different sponsors and the prizes.

While we're on the topic of contests, there will also be one MAIN contest, which will have the biggest prize of all! So stay tuned for more information about that contest!!

Matches are Going Out

2008-02-02T11:33:00.000Z

Hey Everyone - Monica here! I've finished sending out my half, and Vikki has started (if not finished) her half too! If you have any problems during the swap, please contact whoever you received your match email from. They will be the authority for any issues you have.

Remember to make contact with your match and let them know you're lurking... but don't let them know who you are. You could send them a Knitting E-card, make an anonymous blog post, send an anonymous email, or send a free E-card! Deadline for making this contact is Friday February 8th!!

Topic of the Week #3: Project Process

2008-02-01T20:59:00.000Z

Sorry for the late update! I got caught up watching Coronation Street.

Q: What is your process when planning a project? Do you shop for yarn and then find a suitable pattern? Do you find your pattern and then go out to buy the yarn? Or are you stash-busting? If your stash is out of control, how did it get that way?

Get Ready to Swap!!

2008-01-31T23:18:00.001Z

Hey Everyone!!

Matches are going out THIS WEEKEND!! Please check your junk mail for an email from us. If you haven't gotten your match by Monday, email us so we can resend it.

Please contact your pal as soon as possible. They're just as excited as you are to get going. Remember to be anonymous - leave an anonymous blog comment, email them from your secret email, or send an ecard (there are some cute links at the bottom of the sidebar for knitting ecards).

Thanks everyone! Stay tuned for Topic #3 and... next week -- The BIG Contest Announcement!!

Revealing Shunklies Donation

2008-01-31T22:57:00.000Z

Shunklies on Etsy was one of the first people to get back to me about being a Sponsor for the UK Swap. Joanne, the creative force behind Shunklies Yarn and Spinning Supplies was kind enough to donate a $25 gift certificate (Etsy is in $dollars$ only).

This will be SECOND PRIZE for the Weekly Topics Contest!!

Here are just a few things that are listed in her shop:

No Questionnaire = No Swap

2008-01-29T17:36:00.000Z

Hi All.

Sorry to have to be this harsh, but I've sent an email to those who haven't posted their questionnaire. Check your junk mail for an email from ukswap@hotmail.co.uk as that's me - Monica. Now this is the harsh part: If you haven't posted your questionnaire by Thursday when I check, you will be dropped from the swap. I don't want to have to do this to anyone so PLEASE respond to the email I sent. Thank you for understanding the need for response and contact with a secret swap.

P.S. Matches will be going out on Thursday Night / Friday. If you haven't received your match by Monday February 4th, please email me at ukswap@hotmail.co.uk. Deadline for contacting your match (remember it's a secret!) is Friday February 8th.

Monica

Questionnaire Due TODAY!

2008-01-28T10:38:00.001Z

Just a quick reminder that Questionnaire's are due TODAY. Please post them on your blog and add a link to your sidebar. We will be checking throughout the day and contacting anyone who has not put their's up (or that we can't find). Thanks in advance!

Revealing Purlescence's Donation

2008-01-26T13:30:00.000Z

Robynn of Purlescence was kind enough to donate this adorable tape measurer from Lantern Moon. It's a sheepy!

This is one of the items included in THIRD PRIZE in the Weekly Topics Contest!!

They also come in different animals/bugs if you want to get one for yourself or your pal. And there are many other "luxury knitting supplies" in Robynn's online store. From needles and bags to yarn and patterns! Check it out:

.

Topic of the Week #2: Magazines

2008-01-25T18:48:00.000Z

Hi everybody! Sorry for the late update, my internet has been on the fritz all week and getting on to check my email has been an ordeal to say the least. We have a portable modem with a UK company (who's name will not be mentioned here) and it's not been working properly. We brought it into the store hoping to have it replaced since you get the modem itself free with your 18-month contract, but they said we have to have the receipt to send it for repair!! Ridiculous.

Anyway, sorry for the tangent, here is this week's question!! Don't forget to leave your post's permalink so that we can locate your answers!

Q: Do you subscribe to any magazines (knitting or otherwise)? Or do you prefer to purchase magazines at the newstand? Do you subscribe online to any knitting magazines/newsletters? What does a knitting magazine need to have to catch your fancy and get you to fork out that well-earned cash?

Welcome All!

2008-01-22T12:37:00.000Z

Hope everyone is having a good week! I'd like to officially welcome everyone who has joined! This is going to be really fun - I'm really looking forward to hosting this swap with Vikki. I've taken part in a few swaps but I've never hosted before, so please help me by letting me know if there are any problems or concerns.

I'd really like to encourage everyone to join in on the contests - the more the merrier, it is however not mandatory. The Weekly Questions are just fun topics to get everyone chatting.

Please post your Questionnaire by Monday January 28th - I know that many of you already have and I thank you very much. I will be checking! You're all added to my Reader and I'm enjoying getting to know you all just a bit better.

Sign-ups end Monday

2008-01-19T22:21:00.000Z

Just a quick reminder that Sign-ups close Monday, January 21st at 12-noon (GMT). So don't delay! Get your email sent and tell your friends! See you all Monday!

Topic of the Week #1: Knit-Years Resolutions

2008-01-18T12:32:00.000Z

With 2008 in full-swing, do you have any knit-years resolutions you are trying to keep to? Stash-busting? Knitting just for yourself? Gift-alongs or starting Christmas knitting early? Do your knit-years resolutions affect your other resolutions? Such as watching your spending, or putting yourself first, or even loosing weight (yarn weight....)?

Remember to leave the link to the exact post (how to find your permalink). If you don't have a blog but still want to participate, you're welcome to use the UKSwappers blog! And most of all - have fun!

Topic of the Week: Contest Explaination

2008-01-18T12:14:00.000Z

The Topic of the Week Contest really simple: Every Friday I will post a Topic of the Week for you to answers on your blog. You don't have to do it on Friday, you have the entire week to post and comment.

Also, this is optional - it's a contest and meant to be fun. If you decide to participate - you need to leave a comment and a link to the exact post in the comments (how to find your permalink). You can join in once, twice, or every week but you must leave a link to your Topic Post each time.

When Weekly Topics end, all the people who blogged will be entered in a contest for First, Second, and Third place prizes. I haven't put the prizes together yet, but I can tell you that it is all thanks to our Sponsors! Thank you ladies.

Welcome Co-Host Vikki

2008-01-16T14:33:00.000Z

Vikki has accepted my offer to co-host, but thank you so much to everyone who offered to help - if I need any more help, I know who to ask!! You all are great!

Just a note with sign-ups, I'm updating every couple of days so if you sent in your application last week or over the weekend and you haven't been added, please send in another application! This happened to Christine, who sent in a 2nd request! If this happened to anyone else - don't hesitate to resend!

How to add TEXT LINKS in your sidebar

2008-01-14T13:07:00.000Z

For your questionnaire, we are asking that you put a link in your sidebar to the post. To find out the permalink URL of the post, find it on your blog and click the title of your post. This should reload it to be the only visible post. The URL in the bar is the permalink (meaning permanent link).

EDIT: To be more clear about the permalink, try clicking on the title of this post - "How to add TEXT LINKS in your sidebar". It will reload and the url should look like this - http://ukswap.blogspot.com/2008/01/how-to-add-stuff-in-your-sidebar.html

For Blogger users:

Login to Dashboard.
Click Layout > Page Elements > Add Page Elements
Choose HTML/Java Script (click on Add to Blog button).
Write [a href="http://permalink url] My UK Questionnaire [/a]
Replace [ ] with < >
Click Save.

For Wordpress users:

Login to Dashboard
Click Presentation > Widgets
Drag and drop a Text Widget into your sidebar
Click the Text Widget, which will pop up a new little window
Write [a href="http://permalink url] My UK Questionnaire [/a]
Replace [ ] with < >
Close the Text Widget and click Save Changes.

Sign-ups going STRONG!

2008-01-12T16:27:00.000Z

Hello to everyone who has joined so far, and WELCOME! Big hugs all around. It's great to meet you and I hope to get to know you all better over the next couple months. Don't be afraid to comment on the blog here, even if it's just a quick hello! Plus, all the blog links are there for you to check out your fellow swappers and strike up some conversations and friendships.

Remember, the "confirmation" that you have joined will be your name added to the sidebar. I have been trying to update them every couple of days, so if you sent your application last week and it isn't up yet -- please send it again.

Just a note about the questionnaire -- if you've already posted it, we don't want it to get lost among blog posts before matches go out and your partner can read it. So if you would be so kind as to put a link to it in an easy-to-find place on your sidebar, or you can make a page for it (Wordpress function)!

Great to see that our blogless participants are making use of the UK Swappers blog. Thank you ladies!

CHANGE IN INFORMATION: Alice has been swamped and won't be able to help co-host. (Did you know she's getting married at the end of February?!) Anyway, as I'm currently co-host-less, I am going to limit the amount of participants to 50. We are currently at 29, so this shouldn't be a problem. But sign-ups will close either when we reach 50 participants, or January 21st, whichever comes first.

Regardless, this is meant to be fun so sit back, relax, and enjoy the swap!

Blogless Participants

2008-01-11T14:33:00.000Z

This is just to let the Blogless participants know about the UK Swappers blog. Please accept the invite to join the blog. You will need to post your Questionnaire here, as well as "received package" photos & post. Thank you!