Want To Try Crochet Pattern Testing?
Why Are Crochet Patterns Tested?
Crochet pattern designers aim to provide high quality patterns to their customers. Whilst we are always happy to provide pattern support, part of providing a high quality pattern involves ensuring that the pattern instructions are easy to follow, the stitch counts are correct, there are no typos etc. This is where crochet pattern testers come in.
A crochet pattern tester follows the draft crochet pattern instructions to create an item, and then provides feedback to the designer on how we can improve the pattern e.g. by identifying mistakes, formatting errors, phrases that are unclear. They can also help by providing photos of their finished item to help demonstrate variations in the pattern, different ‘looks’ etc. and sometimes help to promote the pattern once it has been released.
***This page may include affiliate links - this means that I may earn a small commission if you purchase the product. This is at no additional cost to you. I will only recommend products that I have tried and tested myself, and that I like using. This income helps me to keep designing quality crochet patterns for you.***
Why Would I Want To Be A Crochet Pattern Tester?
There are many different reasons why someone might want to try pattern testing. Some individuals see it as a challenge/want to learn a new technique, others want to support a designer that they like, wish for early access to a pattern that they like or seek to gain insight into the pattern testing process.
I myself have undertaken pattern testing for various designers, and still participate in occasional tests. In fact, my first project using mosaic crochet was via a pattern test! I have found pattern testing to be fun and a great excuse to either shrink my stash or buy new yarn.
Unfortunately, most designers cannot afford to pay pattern testers, however it is customary to provide a free copy of the final pattern file to all testers who fulfil the test criteria.
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What Makes A Good Crochet Pattern Tester?
The most important quality of a valuable pattern tester is good communication skills. Whether it’s responding to the designer checking in, providing feedback or seeking clarification on a design element, regular and prompt communication is always highly appreciated.
Ideally a pattern tester should feel comfortable asking questions. A good designer would always prefer to help address any issues identified so that they can be fixed before the pattern is finalised, and thereby improve their customer’s crocheting experience.
Testers require a good eye for detail so that they can provide specific and constructive feedback about the pattern. This could involve spotting typos and incorrect stitch counts, or suggesting better phrasing so that the instructions are easy to follow .
Unless otherwise specified a tester should always follow the pattern EXACTLY as written. This allows all mistakes/unclear instructions to be found and fixed. Equally, it is essential to finish the test by the deadline - if this is not possible for any reason the designer should be informed as early as possible. We understand that our testers are people too and life events can sometimes interfere with the previously agreed upon plans. The sooner we hear from you, the sooner we can adjust our plans if necessary.
Huge bonus points are given to testers who are able to provide high quality photos, and are willing to promote the pattern following it’s release.
Can I Test For Elimee Designs?
Whilst we do have a small pool of regular testers, we are always keen to work with new testers too! New testers bring a fresh perspective to the testing process :)
We frequently post our tester calls within the ‘Crochet Pattern Testers’ Facebook group, advertise that we are seeking testers on social media, and going forwards will be e-mailing those who have expressed an interest details of new tester calls. Our pattern tester e-mail list (which you can sign-up to below) is the only guaranteed way to see EVERY testing invite, as unfortunately social media platforms do not show every post to every follower.
Crocheters of all abilities are welcome to apply to test for us - we like to ensure that our patterns are suitable for all skill levels. Prior to selecting our testers we like to see examples of crocheted items that you have crocheted and photographed. To this end, please make sure that your Ravelry/Instagram profile(s) include examples of your work, or that you have a stash of photos to hand that you can send to us upon request.
I look forward to working with you soon!