ATC 101: My First ATC

Have you heard about ATCs and never made one or are you new to Swap-bot and just discovering the art?

This swap is mainly for the novice to learn to create simple ATCs. All skill levels are welcome, but the ATC should be simple as described.

You will make 1 simple ATC for 1 partner in this swap.

Read instructions carefully and have fun! Try to do your best work, but don't feel intimidated if you have not done this kind of art before. We all have to start somewhere.

Step 1...choose a sturdy foundation...can be a cereal box or several sheets of card stock glued together. Make sure the size is 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches and that it does not bend easily. If you glue pages together, make sure they are glued well. Cover the foundation to make a background. This can be done using decorative paper or paints, markers, alcohol inks, etc. Old book pages make great backgrounds.

Step 2...choose a focal image. This can be a clipping from a magazine, a stamped image or even a hand drawn image. Do NOT use stickers! Glue the image to the background using a good craft glue or gel medium. If you choose to use a rubber stamp, you may stamp directly on the background and color if necessary.

Step 3. Embellish your card with additional drawings or pictures, ribbon, yarn, small charms, flowers, brads, tags, buttons, or words printed or cut from an old book. Be careful here...you want only one or two embellishments, not a heavy, gaudy card. Also, if you use embellishments that are not flat, the postage will be extra and you will need to make sure to cover that when you mail.

Step 4. On the back, write the swap name, your name, date and swap-bot user id and sign the card. Place in a protective sleeve or make a small envelope for the ATC.

Place the ATC inside a note card and mail to your partner. I often decorate the envelope just for fun. Make sure to include the name of the swap on the note or envelope so that it is easy for your partner to rate.

Since this is a newbie type swap, I am keeping this one USA only. If there is demand, I will create an international version.

This swap is open to all but I will review all profiles and reserve the right to ban those who have recent 1's or 3's or are known problem swappers. I will angel if necessary.

If you have questions or problems, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Please rate your partner as soon as possible after receiving the swap.