I am participating in the Secret Pal 11. I usually like these sort of exchanges as I get to plan a surprise for another knitter. But, with my current exchange I am facing a dilemma, and perhaps, you can help.....
My first package was to have a theme - Spa indulgence. It included some luscious yarns (linen, silk, cotton), along with patterns to make some spa-like accessories (washcloths, bath mitts, sachets). Of course, it also included beautiful collection of elegant sundries (bath salts, lotions, oils), aromatherapy candles and some decadent chocolate for the ultimate indulgence. My problem is that my partner lives abroad. This package that I put together will cost over $40.00 in postage alone!!!!!! Yikes, and this is just the first of three packages that are due! Now, I don't begrudge spending money on someone. Heck, that's what this is all about. But, I do begrudge spending that sort of money just on postage. That's downright ludicrous. It's absurd!
So, I'm back to the drawing board and open for any suggestions.....
Does anyone have any lightweight, and I do mean "lightweight", suggestions for a wonderful package?
4 comments:
That sounds like a *wonderful* gift idea!
Instead of sending it all at once, as a one-shot deal (or as a huge gift), why not send a bit at a time?
Maybe one skein of yarn (or more), with some bath beads and an oil....and then add more from your little gift stash next month? Splitting up the gifts might bring down your costs :)
Oh but Maire... this was just going to be the FIRST of the three packages! To post a package, even a "lightweight" one, will cost a minimum of $20.00 each! So, since there will be three packages. I don't want to skimp on the gift... I'd rather come up with a way to skimp on the postage. :>
I just had the same problem. My partner for a different exchange, lives in Norway. It's a one time exchange, but the package cost me $36 to mail. That was after lightening it a bit. My first trip to the post office, they said it was going to cost $45.
My SP 11 partner lives in the UK, and just to mail a magazine, some tea and mints to her (her "Hello" package) cost $15. Next package is going to be just yarn I think, and the last package will be more of the same, and maybe a few knitted items.
I use to send two packets at the same time if this happens to me (it often does). Like one 350g and one 100g. That way I save money. I rarely use boxes as they already weight lots empty. I use padded envelopes. I`ve used my weight scale since 1991 and that way I know what everything costs before I go to the post-office. Have sent letters and packets abroad for more than 30 yrs so I guess I`ve a bit experience in saving postage. :) Like letters I send from a neighbour country due to the expensive postage in my country. Not much to save at packages. Good luck, hope you will find a way to mail which isn`t too expensive.
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