Recycle your stuff at an official clothes swap

Susan Morris
Friday, May 4, 2012 12:00 a.m. | Friday, May 4, 2012 12:00 a.m.

The other day a friend dropped by as I was pulling clothes out of my closet for Goodwill. After I suggested she go through the stuff, my friend ended up taking most of the clothes.

Before seeing my friend's enthusiasm for my clothes, I had never considered having an official clothes swap. But why not?

It's a great way to clean out your closet, ramp up your wardrobe and save money.

Here are some recommendations on how to host a clothing swap.

Ask between six and eight people to participate. Invite a diverse group, in order to gather a large variety of stuff. Tell your guests that the person who brings the best and the most will get a door prize.

Encourage participants to bring not only clothes, but also jewelry, handbags, shoes, sunglasses, scarves and other accessories.

For displaying the items, get dress racks, have full-length mirrors, hangers, and a bulletin board for jewelry. Don't forget the shopping bags!

If you'd prefer cash for your clothes, try selling them at a garage sale. Be forewarned: Second-hand clothing rarely brings much money. Check yardsalequeen.com for tips.

Pricing has gotten complicated. Customers are reselling yardsale items for significantly more on eBay. Unfortunately, it's unlikely you could get the same higher prices at your yard sale.

Here is a reader's response to my recent column on tipping:

Don't forget the newspaper delivery person. He or she most likely has two jobs, wakes up at 3 a.m. or earlier, and has to deliver every day of the week in all weather. Don't forget the skyrocketing gas prices.

It's easy to take for granted that your paper is on your porch or in your driveway every morning. It's a service that definitely deserves an appropriate tip.

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