Etsy Tradeaholics

We've all had someone ask, how does a trade work? 

Most of us old timers have been around for so long we don't even think twice that not everyone knows how it works. I honestly didn't understand what I was don't until I was on my oh, 10th trade and insulted someone. (I won't go into specifics ) I wasn't that rude and it was totally by accident. 

My blunder was all about how the trading works and how the "money total" adds up. So, here is a brief description. :) 

Basically, you check out a shop or they check you out, you convo each other to see if you or they have anything the other wants. 

Ok, example. I sell mostly vintage, but I also sell vintage supplies, patterns and fabric. 

I think your fingerless gloves are awesome, I send you a convo to see if you would possibly be interested in a trade. You check my shop to see if there's anything you like. You see my awesomely (is that a word?) fabulous paper doll print fabric. Since the price and shipping costs are very close, you convo me back and say "Heck yeah! I want your fabric". 

We both make our purchases using the money order or "other" payment method. We ship each other our items and the trade has been made. 

We do encourage each trading partner to leave positive feedback as it helps your public profile. 

Now, sayin' you don't find anything in my shop that you like or need. A simple convo back saying, "I'm sorry, not seeing anything I need this time around. Maybe next time." 

You may also convo back with something you're looking for. Most of us have tons of cra...... *cough* wonderful items (destash) we don't have time to list. 

*whew*

Does that make sense? Please tell me that makes sense. My fingers are tired. My brain too.

(Both of these are being copied and pasted from 2 posts I made on the monthly chat)

Ok, the money part. 

Gloves $20
plus shipping 5.00

Fabric 17.00
Shipping 8.00

When you add the numbers, it makes an even trade. Usually if it's within a $ or 2, most of us old timers will just forgive that amount. :)

(All punctuation or spelling errors have been fixed if I saw them this time)

Thank you. 

Your Fearless Captain. 

*takes a bow*