Welcome! If you are interested in becoming part of the pool from where I choose my crochet pattern testers, keep reading to learn more!
Pattern Testing Process
If you are not familiar with pattern testing, before a crochet pattern is published, designers give an advance copy to a select number of skilled crochet testers who are tasked with making the item and providing feedback to make sure the pattern is understandable and able to be made as written. These testers are usually chosen through a “tester call,” were a designer makes it known they are looking for testers. Those who are interested are then directed to an application to apply for that particular test.
For tests for From: Nicole’s Creations, once selected, communication happens via a group chat on Instagram. Because of this, you must be following me on Instagram to be considered as a tester. This makes communication easier and helps to ensure messages don’t get lost in the dreaded “Requests” folder.
During the test, you will be asked to provide information such as overall yardage, measurements, and fit of the finished project as well as where clarification or additional photos would be helpful, etc. While suggestions are welcome throughout the testing process, final feedback must be provided on the designated feedback form provided at the beginning of the test.
Pattern Tester Responsibilities
What I ask of my testers:
To follow the pattern as written. This includes:
- Checking gauge at the start of the test
- Not making modifications without reaching out to me first. Modifications will only be allowed if fit is otherwise impacted.
To complete the test in the given time frame. I try to be respectful of the time it takes to make pieces, so I expect testers to be respectful of my time as well and finish within the given timeframe. Typical testing schedules:
- Small home accessories (dishcloths, cup cozies): 1-2 weeks
- Small wearable accessories (beanies, headbands): 2-3 weeks
- Mid-size accessories (bags, shawls, scarves): 3-5 weeks
- Short sleeve tops/sweaters: 6-8 weeks
- Long sleeve tops/sweaters: 8-12 weeks
- Larger items (blankets): 12+ weeks
To communicate with me, as needed. If something comes up during the test and you are no longer able to complete it within the given timeframe, please let me know. I understand life can be unpredictable and things happen, but I can’t know if you don’t tell me.
Fill out the feedback form, even if you didn’t notice any errors in the pattern.
Provide at least 1 photo of the finished project. This allows me to confirm the pattern was made properly. You, however, have full control over where, or if, I share the photo.
Copyright: Testers must refrain from posting photos of the pattern instructions or videos/tutorials of you making the pattern, in part or in whole. From: Nicole’s Creations retains the rights to all parts of the pattern and photos. If posting about the project on social media, please tag @fromnicolescreations to give credit.
Bonus, but not required: Add your project to Ravelry.
Please note, failure to abide by the tester responsibilities listed here or within individual tester applications may lead to the removal from my tester pool without further notice.
What I do NOT ask of my testers:
Photos:
- While I do require 1 photo to ensure the project was made correctly, I have no other photo requirements and you have full control of if and on what platforms I share your photos.
Posting:
- I do not require any likes, saves, or shares to be considered for testing.
- I do not require a particular number of posts or stories about the project, nor do I require posting around the release date (but if you do, it is very much appreciated!).
My Responsibility as the Designer
To respond to all questions about the test within a timely manner. Note, most of my tests include testers from all around the world, so I may not be in the same time zone as you. As such, I strive to respond to all questions/feedback within 24 hours.
Listen to your feedback. While every suggestion may not make it into the final pattern, I do promise to consider all feedback seriously. Your thoughts are important to me.
To be respectful and encourage a positive testing environment. As a designer, I think it is important to acknowledge and respect testers as individuals who are volunteering their time and resources to make the pattern the best it can be. I want all of my testers to feel safe and enjoy testing for me. This includes allowing testers to decide if they want their name or IG handle to appear in the patterns and if/where any of their photos are allowed to be shared across my blog, newsletter, and/or social media platforms.
At the end of the test, provided all above requirements have been met, testers will be given the final version of the tested pattern and will continue to receive any updated versions of the pattern made in the future.
The Final Details
By signing up for my tester pool, this in no way obligates you to any particular pattern test. You are simply signing up to be notified when tester calls are available. Tester calls will go out to this email list first, followed by a public tester call on Instagram if more testers are needed. Anyone interested in any given test will fill out an application for that test, signifying their interest.
Depending on the number of people who apply for a particular test, I may not be able to take everyone, especially if you sign up for the most popular sizes (adult sizes for winter accessories and small or medium for garments). However, I do try to have a mix of veteran and “new to me” testers of varying skill levels for each test, so if you are not selected for a particular test, please don’t be discouraged and do keep applying.
So, if you are interested in being first to know when tester calls for From: Nicole’s Creations are available, sign up below!
Last Updated: November 1, 2024