If you had brought this concern up before the deadline, I would have suggested posting the photo and getting the groups advice. But, since the deadline has passed, it is moot now. Next year you can get started earlier.
The final list is:
Stan Buzek
Avigil
pafka
Daado
Ken Holland
M. McAlevy
Sando
C.D.Humiston
Stacy Apelt
Forest Taylor
Kevin KF Knives
tattooedfreak
Evan Wilson
MotorCityMike
Tony Mount
Joseph Bandeko
D Bloch
DanF
dwaterfield
FredyCro
Way Barney
So, get those knives ready for shipping, print out any certs or letters to the recipient, and have it ready to ship out ASAP.
Shipping tips:
Don't ship in the sheath unless the sheath is lined with kydex or plastic. A good method for safe shipping is to wrap the blade with cardboard and tape securely or put in a knife sleeve or blade cover.
Wrap the knife and sheath well in bubble wrap or other packing to keep it from moving around. Peanut packing is not very good for knives as they move through it too easily.
Put in a cert or provenance sheet with all the info on the knife. Include your name and contact info so the recipient can contact you with a Thank-you and any questions. Give an history, building details, and care tips you want to pass on to the new owner.
Print out the address label. Printed bold type is read much better by the sorting machines than handwritten addresses. Be sure to put your return address ... just in case.
Use a strong box. A flat rate box is highly recommended as the best way to ship a knife. It gets tracked and delivered faster.
Seal and tape the box well, with clear tape over the recipients address.
Take it to the Post Office as soon as possible. Insurance is a good idea. Shipping rate/method is up to you, but if using the USPS, Priority Flat rate is a very good idea. Others may prefer USPS, FED-X, or another shipper.
If you have any doubts about the recipients shipping or delivery info, best method for their country, etc. - contact them before mailing the knife.
I'll put the names in the match generator and get the recipients info to all of you sometime today or tomorrow. I added a parameter to match the European folks to make shipping expenses and customs easier on everyone. The USA and Canada are all matched together.
In a couple days I'll add the "Woo-Hoo, My KITH knife Arrived" thread in the stickys.
