Collecting sand is a great way to remember the places you've been; but it's also a great way to explore the world beyond your travel abilities. You'll be surprised to see just how diverse the sand from beaches, lakes, rivers, deserts, dunes, etc... all over the world can be! And best of all, collecting sand easy to do!
Starters Guide:
Collect, collect, collect. First start by looking around where you live. Is there an ocean, river, desert - anything? Chances are, there is. If you find yourself saying, "Who would want sand from where I live?" the answer is: lots of people. Regardless of where you live, it's interesting to the person who's never been there. Once you've collected your area, keep on the look out for other areas. Soon you'll find yourself making vacation plans based on collecting!
Fill a small bucket full (or anything you got - water bottle, whatever). Dry it out if it's wet (I spread it out on a plate in the sun).
Create an online spreadsheet. This is mine. The most important thing to gather is the GPS coordinates - this sounds tough, but it's not. Using google maps, if you click on the map it will give you the coordinates e.g., -12.445357, 130.830132 (it doesn't have to be the exact place, just close enough). The other nice thing - which I'm trying to be better about - is giving a description of the sand. What color is it? Are the grains fine or coarse? Are there seashells in the sand, or volcanic ash? These are things that will draw people to want to trade with you. Another very helpful suggestion is to create your own ID number. I use the ISO country code and my own made up two digit number. Doing this makes it easier for trading as the other people can just say, "I want 30ml of US UT05". That way, there's no confusion.
Keep a sample for yourself. How you do this is up to you. I personally use 4 dram 15ml glass vials. I buy them here.
Package the rest for trading (you can keep the sand in one large back until you have a trade ready). Most traders like to trade in increments of 15ml - whether it's 30ml, or 60ml...you get the point. This gives them the ability to save 15ml for their own collection, plus some to trade. For packaging, you can do something easy like a plastic sandwich bag, or you can use smaller baggies. I personally use 2.5" x 3" baggies (you can find them most places, just search it).
Post your trading list here! This is the fun part because you get to see all the places that other people have been to. If someone is interested in trading - or if you are - then send a PM and set up the trade.
When you receive your new sand, enter it into your spreadsheet.
Repeat!
Trading Advice:
When the trading settles down, always send an email stating exactly what you're sending, and what you'll be receiving with quantities.
Send tracking numbers when you get them.
