So, you want to be a test knitter?

In case you got to this page as a happy accident, and you aren’t familiar with what test knitting means or what test knitters do, I’d like to provide a little background.

Design is a process. The end goal is to provide knitters with a perfect pattern for the creation of something lovely. It starts with yarn and/or an idea (in my case, it is typically a particular yarn that whispers to me what it wants to be when it grows up). This concept then blooms into a drafted design, sketched out, written and sample knitted. When I think it is as perfect as my mere human hands and mind can make it; off it goes to the Tech Editor. My lovely tech editor scours it for any errors in terminology, stitch count, abbreviations – pretty much anything that might make it less than perfect. However, tech editors are also human. As an added step towards the best possible pattern, it goes off to test knitters who work their stitch magic. The goal is for the test knitter to work happily on their project, hopefully error-free, but sometimes they catch something.

For most of my patterns, your skill level isn’t really a consideration, but for each project the suggested skill level will be identified.

First and foremost, a completed project is expected of selected test knitters. If you commit to a test knit, please do so with every intention of completing it.

Second, feedback on the pattern. There will be a very brief questionnaire provided once you are accepted as a test knitter. Typically, the questionnaire asks about yarn and needle sizes used. Did you find any errors or elements that needed clarification? Those kinds of things.

Third, photos! You don’t have to be a professional photographer, but ample photos are appreciated. Especially if taken during different phases of the process (if applicable).

Fourth, set up a Ravelry page. By setting up and completing a Ravelry page, you are helping me boost my business so that I may continue to create patterns that hopefully you and others will enjoy. Instructions on how to set up a project page will be provided when you are notified of selection.

Communication will be via Slack, where you can chat with the other test knitters in our group. Fiber lovers always make for fast friends. If you don’t want to engage with the group, you may email me directly.

By responding here that you are interested in test knitting, I’ll send you a notice whenever one of my patterns is ready for test knitting. Details on each pattern, to include materials needed, a picture of the sample and deadline for the test knit.

You bet! You will receive:

Early access to a new pattern

Community engagement (if you elect to join the group via Slack)

Final published copy of the pattern

Coupon for 20% off any of my other independently published patterns