.It still amazes me when serendipity steps in and blesses your life in unexpected ways. I have been wanting to try my hand at Artist Trading Cards (ATC) and had been looking for a good trading site when I found Swapbot. It turned out that Swapbot not only helps facilitate ATC trades. but other types of arts and crafts trades, also. They also facilitate pen-paling. Not only am I learning about ATC's and thoroughly enjoying it but in seeing how others do their art I am learning new methods and styles. Some of the sponsored swaps even come with tutorials so you can learn and swap of equal value. Some of what I have learned is new and different ways of using my art and sharing the joy it brings me. One of my discovers was in Mail art; in seeing how others did their mail art I took it a step sideways and started using stickers (see photo). I tried different methods and papers but now I use address labels to make my envelope stickers. The 2x4 size Avery (48363) address label is great and so is using the Avery (25395) self adhesive name badges.
. However one of the greatest things I've learned is the art of writing a good letter. There is a knack to it; to make it enjoyable to both you and your reader. In todays world of text messaging and short e-mails, this artform has been largely lost. From recieving and writing letters from those I trade with I am developing that skill. Just like in doing a blog I have learned to express myself better (still learning) by doing and seeing others blogs ( I go back and read my early posts and wow what a difference) With pen paling, writing is on a different level. I am now learning to more effectively communicate with others and especially my grandchildren, Since my grandchildren are growing up, living far away and most are in school, writing can now be a way to establish ties with them. What a potential blessing this is; all because I joined Swapbot . You just never know what blessings can come from seemingly little events in your life. SERENDIPITY at work.On top of the things I am learning I am also gaining in friendships, double blessings.
The photos are what I have sent on recent swaps. The top one is 3 different swaps with 7 different people. The bottom photo is a swap, Stuff an 6x9 envelope. One of the nice things about this kind of swap in I can thin down my art supplies of excess and know it will be appreciated. A new way of the old trading system.
Fun, fun
Enjoy
☺☺☺Johnina☺☺☺
