Collecting and exchanging SWAPs is often an extra activity at a much larger event. If you make 100, you’ll have probably 75 or so new ones. Let’s look at what we do with all these SWAPs.
Steps
1. Necklace.
When starting to collect SWAPs, a necklace is a quickly crafted item that they can use. I’ve made braided and finger-knitted ones. When the girls get enough to put on a hat, they’ll sometimes use the necklace to display the SWAPs they have available for trade. This happens more frequently with older girls since they like to make smaller batches of a variety of SWAPs. Find a pattern you like and make a necklace so you have a starting place to put your SWAPs.
2. Bandana.
Using a bandana as a place to pin your SWAPs is also a great idea. You don’t need to put it around your neck (but you can). You can tie it around your waist or a couple belt loops. Put a few SWAPs on a bandana and see how you might attach it to yourself.
3. Hat.
Many people wear their personal collections on their heads. This is a great idea . . . until it rains. When putting items on a hat, point out that possibility. You might want to leave those home that won’t make it through bad weather. Bucket or camp hats are normally how these SWAPs are displayed. Check out hats to see what works best for you.
4. Temporary.
When you don’t have a way to display your SWAPs, you may find a temporary solution is necessary. For this, I use large zip-top bags. You might also choose to use a box. They keep the SWAPs clean and damage-free. Do not overstuff a bag as your SWAPs may get damaged. Get a few bags to use while you’re determining your larger display in the steps below.
5. Album.
Making an album for a SWAP can include not only the SWAP, but any additional information as well. If you took a picture with the person you swapped with and have their personal information, putting all that information on one page allows you to go back to it. You might also include your thoughts of the SWAP or event. Organize your albums by event so you can keep your memories together. It also makes it easier for you to share with others.
6. Protect.
Most people think of single page protectors for a single sheet. However, you can get them in a variety of sizes. For example, you might put baggie SWAPs into a page protector designed for business cards. In addition to the SWAP itself, you can put information on materials or steps to make it in the same area. This will allow you to easily flip through your SWAPs without damaging them.
NOTE: Your SWAP will probably be flattened by this display / storage system.
7. Sheets.
Create your own sheet with photos of your SWAP. This is especially good when you take a picture before ripping a SWAP apart to see how it’s made. You can save your sheets digitally or physically. You can also use the sheet(s) as the basis for an activity box for a single or multiple SWAPs.
8. Personal.
Personal displays allow you to see your SWAPs without taking them out into the weather. This allows you to have inspiration without worrying about the SWAP being lost or destroyed. They can be pinned on a curtain, sheet or other large piece of fabric. You can also hang ribbons from a hanger or treat them like ornaments. Explore various display options and try at least one.
9. Banner.
Some trainers like to make a banner to hang their SWAPs on. This is usually a doll rod with a piece of felt hanging from it where SWAPs are attached. At the ends of the doll rod is a hanging string so it can be placed anywhere with a nail or hook on a wall and then taken down when the training is done. You can also use this idea for a smaller display of SWAPs when you’re working with your own girls. Look at the possibility of a banner.
10. Stand.
So, when your collection has swelled considerably and the banner is no longer practical, making a stand is another option. I’ve seen a few at trainings and counsel events. I haven’t done this one myself, but it is on my list because my collection might just require it.
11. More.
What other ideas can you think of that allow you to display your SWAPs while also having access to them easily? Start experimenting!
Badge and Supplement Files
Member Level
- EP_Badge List_SWAPDisplay_larajla — list of badge items
- EP_Badge Set SWAPDisplay_larajla — list of badge set and related badges
- EP_Supp_List SWAPDisplay_larajla — list of supplements for the badge
- SUPP_BPG SWAPDisplay_2in_12up_larajla — generic badge printable
- SUPP SWAPDisplay_Journal_larajla — badge journal
- SUPP SWAPDisplay_Planner_larajla — badge planner
Supplement Fun
- N/A
Sites to Explore
- www.swapsforscouts.com/display-ideas
- www.kuninfelt.com/2017/08/05/a-banner-for-swaps
- craftknife.blogspot.com/2017/11/how-to-make-girl-scout-swaps-banner.html
- www.meandmyinklings.com/index.php/2016/07/21/a-girl-scout-bag-for-swaps
- makingfriends.com/swap-holders
Get the infographic here > larajla blog post
Get the PDFs of the badge program / supplements here