Mr. Blur,
I just read this thread and thought I'd respond. Although I'm listed as a relative newcomer, I've been on this site for over 10 years. Was banned a few years ago but that's another story and one I won't get into. Suffice to say that I participated in a lot of swaps both as a participant and as a swapmeister. You ask about 'themed' swaps. Well, it wasn't that long ago that I offered to list one but the theme apparently wasn't all that attractive. Hey that happens. I did join another swap and that went well. So why are there not more and why are the themed swaps just about dead? I don't buy it that postage and material costs deter people. I'm just guessing that the 'better' tyers (being very subjective here) have been disappointed with what they've received. Tyers in swaps keep inventing their own patterns and, I'm guessing, that's not what others are looking for.
You mentioned a Pete Hyat(sp?) swap that was a long time ago. I participated in that one. I have those flies framed and hanging. I can recall many of the 'old timers' who swapped back when and I'm not sure if they are just lurking, still post, still swap or maybe they've just quit the site? Maybe swaps have just become passe'? Maybe swappers, at least those who take the swap seriously, are tired of the excuses of some swappers and hosts and also disappointed with the flies?
So, okay, I posted this as a potential 'themed swap' a few months ago. I'll post it again here and on another thread. Maybe there'll be some interest. Oh, just for you guys/women who are looking for a disciplined swapmeister, look no further. I communicate, am considerate, send reminders if needed, respect all participants and their efforts by sticking to the schedule established.
Here goes:
http://www.flyanglersonline.com/bb/i...cons/icon1.png Anyone Interested?
This is not an announcement. I hosted a swap with this as a theme several years ago and I'm just wondering if anyone would be interested this time around.
'Teeny Tiny Fly Swap'
Flies must be tyed on a Mustad size 28, or a Tiemco 30 or 32. I'm not aware of any other manufacturer who makes that small of a hook but if so, by all means.
Flies must have at least 3 materials and parts. Just as an example: a comparadun or sparkle dun with 1)tail, 2)body, 3)wing.
If there's sufficient interest I'll post something about initiating the swap. Oh, if you post that you're interested that does not lock you in as commited to the swap. But please be realistic with any comment about your interest.
Oh, although it's a very small consideration, the expense for shipping is considerably less than other swaps. In fact, you can even package the flies so they can be mailed in a normal envelope!
Allan