Beginner's - ArtTrader Magazine

Art TRADER
m a g a z i n e
IF YOU PLEASE
Yes, there’s an etiquette unique to ATC trading. When you respect that etiquette, you enjoy seamlessly smooth
swaps while earning a glowing reputation and positive feedback within the Mail Art community—and you form
lasting friendships with incredibly cool art people in the process. Any way you slice it, it’s win/win!
Must-Sends
Almost without exception, every swap host will require that, in addition to your art, you send:
(1) Sufficient postage to cover mailing your returns
(2) Your address
Most often, you’ll be asked to include a self-addressed, stamped envelope or “SASE” along with your art. But
sometimes, depending on host preferences, swap needs, and mailing considerations, you might instead be
asked for variations on this theme, such as:
• A sticker with your address (your host will provide the envelope)
• Cash or stamps sufficient to cover postage on your returns
• Postage payment via PayPal
• An email communicating your street address
Ensure your package meets swap requirements before sealing your envelope and shipping your art. Although
most hosts understand the occasional “oops,” it’s still a nuisance and a chore for them to chase down missing or
forgotten items (postage, addresses) after the due date. Worse, the entire swap is held up as a result.
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“Extra” Credit
In addition to the necessary “must-sends,” swap
hosts appreciate a short note of thanks. It’s a huge
responsibility to host a swap, requiring constant
communication and monitoring, and flawless
organization.
While the rare host occasionally requests “No extras
in your envie, please;” more commonly, it’s sincerely
appreciated when you make a special gesture of a
gift in the form of host extras, which might include:
• A swap-themed ATC (make one extra, for your
host)
• ATCs, bookmarks, or journal pages in a theme the
host collects (check the host profile)
• Pre-cut ATC blanks or art-ready paper
• Patterned paper bits, fibers, and ephemera (for
mixed-media-friendly hosts only)
• Loose stamps (or their cash equivalent) to
cover postage shortages and the added cost of
international returns.