Early in February I sent a large bundle of my note cards to Phat
fiber as an advertising add-in to their Phat Fiber sample box.
Because I exceeded the 50 sample minimum I got my own free sampler
box and it arrived just the other day.

The folded paper envelope in the middle, with the line drawing on it,
holds all the business cards and smaller samples like stitch markers.
The picture on it is the Mona Lisa, in keeping with February's theme
of Master Painters.
I was really astonished at the amount of work these indy dyers and
spinners put into their samples. Many use unique packaging and
labeling just for samples, special folders or baskets - not to
mention what it must cost them, not only in prep time but for the
actual fiber or yarn itself! To do all the dyeing or carding, divide
and package it or do the spinning and make the mini-skeins... to meet
the 50 sample minimum takes 25 ounces of fiber or 1000 yards of yarn.
That's a pretty significant commitment!
Everything in the box was lovely and fairly high quality. Can you see
that bag in the center, in front of the box with the silver-grey-
almost-blue mohair locks? That sample is one of my favorites! Right
above it is another favorite, a mini-skein of deliciously soft dark
grey silk blend - if I had 500 gm I'd cast it on tomorrow!
In every lovingly prepared sample you see the hopes and aspirations
of these artists, trying to make their contribution memorable enough
to encourage purchases. I so admire and salute their efforts! I know
how they feel. All I can say is that so far my participation has not
resulted in one single sale. I try not to take it personally. We live
in the age of email so maybe trying to sell note cards is a bit like
having a horse seller next door to a car lot... but that's life,
isn't it? Nothing ventured nothing gained? I think I will continue to
contribute business cards, it's an easy and fairly inexpensive way to
keep your name out there but I can't see myself sending samples out
again - not with a result like that. I think I'll just go and cry
into my paintbox now.... (just kidding!) Cheers!
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