Pattern Test is an excellent tool in your arsenal when you want to give patterns a trial run before release.
If you are a knit designer and if youโre going to sell a product, it should be a top-notch, and pattern test is a beautiful way to make sure youโre putting out quality designs.
Pattern test process
Find testers
There are Facebook groups, Ravelry groups, Email list, and Instagram to find pattern testers.
Instagram is my favorite for looking for testers. By working with testers who already follow you, theyโre familiar with you, your work, and your style already so they know what theyโre signing up for, and theyโre probably really excited about it!
Pattern Test Survey
You will send a survey, open to those interested in testing for you.
Ask questions that help you figure out who fits your pattern the best.
Include the size, the ease, the materials, due date, and make sure the period is reasonable (6-8 weeks for a garment).
Set a more professional tone upfront; you can relax the tone during the test.
Pattern Test Email
Make sure you include all of your expectations for your testers in an email to your testers.
Write down every aspect of the testing, like if they can post their WIP photos on social media, if they can use a different yarn, the testing code for Ravelry, etc.
Email allows you to have a reference throughout the testing process because all the critical communications and updates will be via email.
During your Pattern Test
I started to put together an Instagram group chat for my testers.
And, instead of single emails, the chat is an easy way for everyone to get to know each other and build friendships.
Also, it is easy for your testers to ask you questions and see if anyone else has asked the same thing already.
Be there! You have to respond in real-time.
Pattern Test Questions
The Instagram group chat is a great place to ask a quick question to your testers. But you can send all your testers, via email, a final survey at the end that is pretty thorough.
Take the time to go through all of their notes and listen to what they have to say. You can ask to follow up questions if you need to.
After Your Pattern Test
Show up for your testers! Prop out their work and let them know you appreciate them.
