THN Gift Exchange Experience

Today, I want to share with you about my experience with The Hook Nook (THN) gift exchange I participated this past spring! It was my first time doing any kind of exchange with someone who is a complete stranger, and I had such a great time!

Join THN Facebook Group

In the beginning of this year, I saw a post on the THN Facebook group that they’re having a gift exchange for spring season. I’ve seen a post about gift exchange (for THN) in the past, but I didn’t really get excited at that time. Later when the exchange was over, I saw so many posts about how great it was! After reading those posts, it got me interested and I wanted to join the next exchange!

When the registration for Spring 2019 exchange opened, I immediately signed up. I don’t think there is a limit to number of participants, but I didn’t wanna miss this opportunity. It took a little time for a partner to be assigned, but it was all worth the wait.

Answer all the questions as detailed as possible

So for the exchange, the staff partnered each person up with those who are near by. I’m from Chicago, IL and I was assigned to a person from same Midwest region. In this way, you spend less amount of shipping fee (which we all want right?) Along with the address and the name of your partner, you will also receive answered questionnaire about your partner. Questions like: favorite color, food, hobby, etc. The more detailed you answer your questions, easier for your partner to make & get YOUR gift.

When I received the questionnaires about my partner, I wanted to go back to my questionnaire. My partner’s answers were so detailed and I could tell what she really likes and doesn’t like. I feel like my answers could’ve been more detailed. I actually sent additional information about me to be more specific about certain questions.

Let’s gather the gifts!

You will have few months to make and gather your gifts. Yes, I said “make” because for this exchange, you are required to make at least 1 handmade gift. It can be any craft…crochet, knit, sewing, etc. After you gather the gifts for your partner, you need to take a photo and send it to the exchange coordinator you’re assigned to for an approval. When you’re gathering the gifts, think about what would make YOU happy when you receive a gift. Obviously don’t get something that your partner doesn’t like (even if that’s something you like). This is another reason why you should answer your questionnaire as detailed as possible. For example, if you’re answering for your favorite color, you should list both favorite and least favorite color so your partner can avoid getting items in that color.

This exchange is about getting to know in the maker community so don’t stress too much about how many or how much gift you should get. The price range should be where you’re comfortable with. If you’re budget is $50, great! If it’s $20, that’s ok too! Here is what I got for my partner:

• Naname Lap Throw (handmade – will be released next year!)
• Tunisian Beta Beanie with extra pompom (handmade)
• Moko Twisted Headband (handmade)
• Booklet of beanie, headband and messy bun patterns (handmade)
• 2 skeins of Caron Simply Soft
• Tunisian crochet hook set
• Artisan caramels by Sweet Nouveau
• Japanese caramel
• A tote bag

In total I got 10 items for my partner. Overall, I spent about $50 which sounds a lot. However, each piece does not cost that much. The most expensive one in this gift is about $12. If your budget is tight, consider making more handmade gifts. There are bunch of DIY videos/tutorials that I’m sure you can make from what you already have in your households. How about giving away few skeins of yarn from your stash? Remember, in my opinion the gift is not about how many you get, but it’s more about how much time and effort you put in to it. Although not that I’m saying 3,4 items may not be acceptable (it all depends on the staff’s decision) Please think about what would make your partner happy when he/she opens the box.

When is the next exchange happening?

Currently, the holiday gift exchange is happening (unfortunately the application date has already passed) but here is the page so you can take a look at what it’s going to be like for the future gift exchange. Go give a follow to THN Facebook page along with Instagram and other social media so you won’t miss the next exchange!

My overall experience was great! It was really fun making and picking each item. Also I felt this circle of joy going around during the exchange. People were really grateful and happy when they received their gift and shared in the group. Not only for them, but it also made me happy. I would love to join another exchange when I have an opportunity!

Thank you for reading and happy crocheting!