If you follow your favorite crocheters on Instagram or other social media accounts, you might notice posts that call for pattern testers. What does this mean?
Crocheters (and probably knitters but I can’t speak for that community!) create new designs and to make sure that their designs and patterns work before publishing them, they have fellow crocheters test their patterns. They crochet the design exactly has the pattern says and then send notes to the original designer about their thoughts, errors, and areas that need clarifications(
Tips for Being a Pattern Tester:
- Complete the pattern exactly how the designer wrote it! If you need to make any changes, please check with the designer first. It really helps to test the pattern exactly how they wrote it because the designer can learn if they have mistakes or errors.
- (Unless asked to change it) use the same weight of yarn and hook size. Changing colors is usually accepted and no big deal but again, if you use the same weight of yarn, it can help with sizing the product and tension.
- Write down notes as you complete your project! I prefer to print out the pattern and keep a pen near by so I can check stitch counts and quickly write ideas down when I’m crocheting. This helps when you are sending the Instagram message or the email of your final notes because it helps you remember everything that’s happened, especially for a longer project.
- If you have a public crochet account (and even if you don’t!) share updates on your project as a story or post! Always make sure to check with the designer first because some host secret pattern tester calls so they can keep their design secret until they release it but most tell you ahead of time. When I see my testers sharing updates on their stories, it makes me so happy! I always make sure to share their posts because they deserve credit for doing incredible work! Most testers also post a a final post with pictures of the product. This is usually a showcase of their amazing skills, a thank you for the designer, and an advertisement for the upcoming pattern release! And who doesn’t love to see crocheter’s current projects?
- Finish the test in time or ask for an extension! Most designers are very comfortable with giving extra time if needed. Always communicate with your designer. I promise it goes a long way.
How to Become a Pattern Tester:
- Most pattern tester calls are all on Instagram. When you see the post, make sure you follow the clarifications for that specific designer. Some request that you follow them (duh!), like the post, comment and sometimes tag a friend or share their post. Some even have a link in their bio that asks you to fill out a form.
- Check hashtags. Hashtags like #crochetpatterntesting, #crochetpatterntesterswanted, and similar tags are usually what designers use. If you are searching for the tag, you can change the feed to be chronological so you can find the most recent posts.
- Reach out and ask designers! I usually post when I am working on new designs and say that I will be looking for pattern testers soon. Some people reach out and ask if they can test and I usually say yes! Especially if I can that they are a great fan of the page and like my posts and comment. It makes me feel like I have a friend!
How to Become a Pattern Tester for Lousy Llama Creations (aka ME!):
- Follow us on Instagram! You can follow us at @lousyllamacreations
- Check out recent posts and stay up to date on new posts.
- Reach out! I’d be happy to add you to my list and don’t worry if you are a beginner crocheter – almost all of my designs are made for beginners!
What other questions do you have about pattern testers? Comment below!
Lousy Llama 