This is a small rant, but an important one.

Etiquette and common sense when it comes to art trades.

Art trades are a transaction of art and a big source of trust. Said trust can easily be broken.
Ignoring your trade partner after they completed their half, or purposely not completing your half and or stealing the art are easy ways to lose an artists trust of you, potentially forever.

If you feel you cannot complete your half within a decent timeframe, do not initiate the art trade in the first place.

If you feel you cannot complete your half once the trade has started, for whatever reason, then explain yourself, do not leave your trade partner in silence until they prod you enough for you to respond.
Don’t give a sob story where they feel sorry for you, simply tell the truth and take responsibility like an adult.

Do not string them on either, this is absolutely annoying.

Truth be told, these have happened to me in the past, which made me avoid art trades like the plague for years.
If you ever do an art trade with anyone, use some common sense and take a look at your life and current situation, if you feel you can’t complete your half, simply do not ask for a trade.

Trust is earnt, however betraying trust is never forgotten. Don’t stain your reputation with an artist you may like, as they may never see you the same again.