If you are an experienced pin collector or a relative new
comer to the hobby, you have asked the question. “Is there such a thing as
etiquette in pin trading?” The simple answer is an unequivocal YES. Etiquette is what keeps people in
the hobby and the lack there of is what gets people out of the hobby.
Simply put there are some do’s and don’ts in this hobby. If
you live by the following simple rules you will find that the pin gods will
smile on you and light your way. Just remember great karma is a great thing and
bad karma sucks and can follow you around for a long time.
Do
- Always
help the new comer to the hobby, particularly the younger ones because
they will be our flag bearers in the future.
- Always
be honest. You’ll sleep better.
- Display
your pins in a way that they are easy to access and show off.
- Only
show your traders and try not to show ones you’re not prepared to part
with. No one likes a tease or a bragger.
- Try to
trade for a pin you want when it presents itself. You never know when
you’ll see that pin again.
- Respond
to every email query.
- Always
be polite. If you’re not you give all pin collectors and bad name.
- Always
try to educate with every opportunity.
- Pin
trading is a great way to meet people. Try to be friendly. You never know
how life long friends you can make in this hobby.
- Most
importantly HAVE FUN!!!!
Don’t
- Never
trade a pin you know is a counterfeit pin without informing the
unsuspecting trading partner. BAD FORM. Remember that karma thing.
- Trade
with a youngster who doesn’t know the value of what he or she has.
- Interrupt
a trade in progress.
- Being
overly aggressive.
- If you
have multiple pins to trade show them all at once.
- Being
rude.
- Trade
with someone you think might be a questionable trader.
- Being
overly enthusiastic when you see a pin you really want. You’ll be at a
disadvantage.
- Displaying
pins you have no intention of trading. That teasing bragger thing.
- Go
crazy if you are a novice especially if going after costly items you don’t
know little about.
Remember if you don’t know always ask a more experienced
trader collector. Their input can prove invaluable.
Pinhunter
