I have to get rid of a case of 8 x 11 padded envelopes first, lol!! At least they can be cut into two, which makes the postage less, as long as I am not sending too many seeds. Thanks, Hanna and Trail, and everyone for their ideas and input! Helps out alot. I am quite positive I will be sending seeds out into the world for many years to come. I even have a seed envelope area in the office now, my kids (and hubby) get the mail and see strange return addresses and moan, "More seeds???" ROFL!!!
SASE postage dilemma
Just a note regarding the new Postal Machines - the ENTIRE envelope goes through them! I used to use cards and/or bubble wrap in #10 envelopes, taping them securely so the seeds would stay on the bottom. Recently I was at the post office and the clerk was showing someone their "new" machines. They operate like the Recycling Can/Bottle Machines. The clerk just sets the edge of the envelope into a slit, and it sucks it through. Saves ALOT on labor costs, but if there's a "bump" in the envelope, it will jam and/or mangle the envelope. So now they will be charging the 12 cent service charge on any envelope that looks "bulky", regardless of the size. It's really very interesting. Our clerks have a "pretend" meter right at the counter, so if they think something's too thick, they can test it while you are there.
Anyway you look at it, I think the bubble mailers are the way to go these days. As an avid trader, I say: If you are offering a trade, YOU state the rules. If the person isn't interested in following your rules, or can't pay attention to them, they are SOL! I can't say that I haven't messed up, but I try to do right. I am so happy with all of the trading I do, and even if the costs are comparable to buying them, I'd rather trade. I love walking around my house and saying "Hi!" to Judy and Kim and Julie, etc. I makes me feel a special bond, and there's an added bonus if you have any problems...you have a tie-line into someone who's "been there, done that".
OK - I'm off the soap box! (Lordy, does that woman go off, or what!?!)
But you "go off" so well!!!! Thank you for the very good updated information.
Judy
Sequee, many many hugs not only for the posting, but the attitude. Why don't you live next door, huh???? I laughed and laughed at the "going around the yard saying hi to Judy,etc" Yes ma'am!!!!! (LOVE your soapbox...where did you get it??)