ISO

ISO means "in search of" and we see it all the time as the subject line on an email group or forum. Sometimes the subject line reads "looking for...", but seldom does the subject line include the actual subject -- the design that the person is wanting. 

"Desperate need" or "looking for..." may seem like good attention-getters, but it is better to start the subject line with what you want: "apple tree design needed" or "heart quilting border needed". When someone responds, you will easily be able to spot the email. Subject lines are often truncated in your email program, so starting the subject line with the most important words keeps them visible.

I read lots of requests for "small" designs. I am left wondering whether the person wants a 3/4" Teeny design, or a 4-inch design. "Small" doesn't tell us much. When asking for a design, be sure to specify an acceptable size range (i.e. 2" to 3-1/2") and acceptable types (filled, redwork, appliqué, quilting, freestanding lace, silhouette). You might also mention whether you want a realistic or cartoonish design, if that matters to you. 

Someone is sure to respond with an email like "try Designed by Jane" or "you can find one here http://moosebstitchin.net." If your subject line does not spell out the type of design you want, anyone reading the response will be left scratching her head wondering what the email is about. A better response is "you can find a 2-inch apple tree design here http://perfectlittlestitches.com/proddetail.asp?prod=smalltinytrees." Note that the URL points to the page where the design can be found instead of a site name or home page. Before posting such a response, copy and paste the URL into your browser to be sure it takes you to the intended page. If you are not sure where a design can be found, please don't send someone on a wild goose chase with unverified guesses such as "I think I saw one at Carol's site." If you want to help, go to "Carol's site" and see if you can find the design, then post the URL to that page.

Once you find the design you want, posting a single thank you to the group is nice. You might use the subject line "apple tree found" and in the message, thank everyone who responded (either as a group or named individually).

Next issue: common abbreviations

from Mary Jane Jane Allen of Perfect Little Stitches

Heart N Sole's
Bibbed Aprons are fun
to make and keep those
pretty little outfits clean.
Four different apron
patterns included.

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