31 May 2009

4 Useful Tips For Buying Discount Quilting Books Through Online Auctions

Women from Gee's Bend work on a quilt during t...Image via Wikipedia

By Sue Quillen

Quilters can find a huge selection of Discount Quilting Books through online auctions. In addition to the rock-bottom costs, there are a great many other benefits for buying covering books through online auctions:

New covering book titles can often be purchased before they are released to the bricks and mortar stores.

Quilters who enjoy collecting books written by a particular author can regularly find a seller listing their whole collection through online auctions.

Rare, out-of-print, and otherwise hard-to-find quilting books can often be found for sale through online auctions.

Before buying any quilting books through online auctions there are a few critical things to be aware of. Here are five helpful tips for purchasing discount quilting books through online auctions:

Pay Close Attention to The Advertised Condition

Be certain to carefully read the description of the covering book offered for sale. If a book is advertised as being 'second hand,' or 'used condition' be advised that the book may contain issues like page discoloration, and scratches, bends, and folds on the cover.

Be Conscious of The Books History

Many covering books offered for sale through online auctions are bought from estate sales. That means that the buyer does not know the history of the book being offered for sale. The book may have been in storage for months and could have a musty odor or smell faintly of mothballs.

This is necessary to be aware of if you have allergies or are sensitive to odors. If the book actually belonged to the vendor, they will often disclose if the book came from a smoke-free or pet-free home in the description. Some sellers don't provide this information. When unsure, always ask!

Watch Those Shipping Costs

Most sellers will ship quilting books via US Postal Service Media Mail or Parcel Post. The shipping cost, therefore, is generally not that great, unless the book being sold is oversized or a large lot is bought. However it is important to note that not each seller will charge 'actual' shipping costs. Those special 'handling' costs that are typically tacked on can include such items as tape, packing envelopes, time expended packing the books, for example.

Many sellers offer to consolidate orders, for multiple wins. This could save significantly on shipping costs. Some sellers even offer free pickup for local buyers.

Read The Return Policy

Always read the return policy. Be aware that a seller will not offer a refund just because a buyer modified their mind about purchasing the quilting book. Some will repay the acquisition cost if the item isn't as described. Normally, however, the purchaser is in charge of the price of the return shipping. If the item is damaged during transit, a seller will not supply a refund unless insurance was acquired.

If you follow these four buying tips, purchasing discount quilting books through online auctions will be a satisfying, profitable, and pleasing experience.

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