What is test knitting?
Test knitting is the last phase of the pattern-designing process. Once pattern writing is done, most designers distribute the unpublished pattern to other knitters for testing. Even though we try really hard not to leave any errors, things can still get missed in the process. By having a group of knitters try out the pattern, we are making sure there are no grammatical or mathematical errors left on the pattern. This process also ensures that the pattern is well-written, clear, easy to follow, and enjoyable. I am grateful for all your hard work and input in helping me bring the pattern to the best possible quality before it is released to the public!
Knitting experience
You don’t have to be an expert or advanced level to be a test knitter, but you should be comfortable with the level of complexity of the pattern. I will provide information on what techniques and stitches are used in the pattern, so you can decide if it is a good project for you or not. Please don’t forget your input is so very valuable regardless of your level!
Digital Skills
All the test knitting will be managed via Google Docs and the platform called Slack. You will need to know or be comfortable learning how to use them.
Google Docs: Test knitters will be able to leave comments with questions or corrections on the pattern directly, and it will be automatically shared with other test knitters. This will prevent repeated questions or corrections during the test knitting and make it easier for test knitters to see the updates (No need to read through all the conversations that have taken place on a chat forum!). Of course, if you would rather use a printed pattern, that is fine. However, please check the digital document regularly for updates.
Slack: I will download/post all the files and announcements on this platform. We can also share info and exchange thoughts to help each other when necessary. This platform allows us to communicate efficiently during the test knitting. If you haven’t used Slack before, the only thing required to register is an email address. It is a free platform.
I will check in every weekday morning (Mon-Fri) throughout our test knit and respond to each comment/question as it comes up.
Yarn
Test knitters agree to supply their own yarn to make a project. It does not have to be the same yarn as suggested in the pattern. Although, it has to meet the same yarn weight and gauge for any given pattern.
Deadline and Requirement
All the patterns have a set publication date. Therefore, there will be a deadline for each test knitting. The date will be stated as I publish the test knitting call, so please make sure you are comfortable completing the project within the given time before applying to be a test knitter.
Photography
Photos are everything when it comes to knitting pattern listings online. I ask test knitters to take photos and share them with me to use on my social media, newsletter, and website to showcase the different fits and styles (ideally on you or another person, so it is easier to see the fits). Your photos will help other knitters visualize the design and inspire them once it is published!
Sharing Photos
Test knit for Palmeri Arts & Crafts is usually not a secret unless specified. This means you can share progress photos of the project during the test knitting on your social media accounts, such as Facebook and Instagram. This is not required. However, I appreciate you for sharing and spreading the word out there! The hashtags associated with the pattern will be provided when test knitting starts.
Ravelry
A Ravelry account is also not required, but If you are active on the website, I would appreciate it if you could create a project page. I will be providing a test knitting code when the testing starts.
What happens at the end?
Once you are done knitting project, you will complete a feedback survey. In the survey, knitters will provide information such as
- the finished measurements of your project
- the total meterage/yardage used for the project
- final thoughts, feedback…etc.
Once the pattern has been finalized, test knitters will receive a free copy of the finalized PDF Pattern as well as an additional pattern of their choice from the Palmeri Arts & Crafts Ravelry pattern store.
Apply to be a test knitter
If all this sounds interesting to you and you would like to be a part of the pattern-making process, please fill out this form.
I will be in touch! Thank you so much for your interest.
