We have successfully tech edited our crochet pattern, and it is now ready for our pattern testers to begin their work. In Part 3 of the Designing a Crochet Pattern Series, I will take you through my detailed testing process and share insights on how I collaborate with my pattern testers to ensure accuracy and clarity. We'll discuss how I select testers and how I use their feedback to improve my patterns. If you haven't done so yet, I encourage you to check out Part 1 and Part 2 of this series for a comprehensive understanding of the entire design process!

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What is a crochet pattern tester?
If you are new to crochet, you might not be familiar with the role of a crochet pattern tester. A crochet pattern tester works through a pattern to identify any confusing sections and to ensure that the finished piece matches the designer's intended vision. Testers crochet the pattern before it is made available to the public. They play a crucial role in ensuring that the pattern is easy to follow, consistent, and complete, without missing any essential information.

Do you need a tech editor and pattern testers?
In Part 2, I discussed the importance of having a tech editor review your pattern before giving it to testers. Both a tech editor and testers play crucial roles in the success of your pattern. A tech editor will verify that stitch counts are accurate, the wording is clear, and that abbreviations conform to crochet standards. Meanwhile, a pattern tester will work through the design to ensure that the finished product aligns with your vision.

Where to find crochet pattern testers?
The majority of my pattern testers have come from Instagram tester call posts, but I've been exploring additional ways to find more testers. Most of my tester calls consist of an image of my completed design, materials needed, requirements or qualifications, and deadline. Typically, I like to choose around 4-8 testers for each pattern. Here are some places where you can discover tester calls yourself:

Social Media (Instagram & Facebook) - Using social media, especially Instagram, has been my primary method for finding pattern testers. You can also discover tester calls on Facebook!

Ravelry - Although I have never used this method to find pattern testers, you can also post tester calls on Ravelry.

Designer Website - In the past, I created a Google survey and placed it on my website to find interested pattern testers. This method can be very helpful as it provides a clearer picture of the types of crocheters applying.

Patreon - I'm new to this, but I've started posting tester calls on my Patreon! Although I haven’t had much activity so far, my plan is to offer all my tester calls exclusively to my paid subscribers on Patreon. If you're interested in gaining access to these tester calls and all of my patterns, be sure to check out my Patreon!

Email List - I have used my email list to find interested pattern testers. Instead of posting on my social media, writing a quick email is much easier! These individuals are often your biggest fans and can serve as excellent pattern testers!

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Qualifications of a Crochet Pattern Tester
This may vary by designer, so be sure to read through all the requirements for a pattern test and get familiar with the designer. Here is what I look for when selecting pattern testers:

1. Experience with amigurumi - For my pattern testers, I want them to have experience crocheting amigurumi and a basic understanding of the stitches and techniques used.
2. Active on social media - I promote my patterns on social media, and I expect my pattern testers to do the same. You don’t need to post every day, but I appreciate seeing some activity on your accounts within the last month or two. Keep in mind that your photos often provide the first impression of your work. If your photos are dark, blurry, or unappealing, I may overlook you as a potential pattern tester.
3. Skill level - This depends on the skill level of the pattern I want to test. I try to include testers of various skill levels for each pattern test to ensure that the patterns are easy to understand.
4. Willing to provide feedback and photos - If you are not willing to provide feedback and photos, and are essentially just seeking a free pattern, I will not consider having you test one of my patterns.
5. Meet the deadline - I understand that sometimes unexpected events can occur that are beyond our control. However, I expect that if you agree to test one of my patterns, you will complete it by the agreed deadline. If you are unsure you can finish within the time frame, I would prefer that you not apply. Based on my experience, testers who provide vague responses regarding deadlines are often unable to complete their work on time. This is not fair to the other testers who are committed to putting in the time and energy needed to meet the deadline.

Process of Testing a Crochet Pattern
Once I have selected all of my pattern testers, I like to send an email that includes the PDF pattern, along with a reminder about the deadline and the requirements. As I mentioned earlier, I design my crochet patterns using Canva, so I typically include a link to the pattern in the initial email, enabling testers to comment directly on it. Additionally, I create an Instagram group chat for all of my pattern testers, which allows them easy access to me for questions, feedback, and suggestions. 

I like to offer my pattern testers a few different options for communication since everyone has their own preferences. Some testers frequently use the Instagram group chat, while others prefer to communicate through email. I'm completely open to either method, as long as my testers are keeping in touch with me. Communication is key when it comes to pattern testing!

How I Use Tester Feedback
I make a conscious effort to maintain an open mind when receiving feedback and suggestions from my pattern testers. While I may not implement every suggestion or idea proposed, I genuinely invest time in thoroughly considering all questions, comments, and recommendations I receive. I want to emphasize how much I value the contributions of my pattern testers; they are offering their insights and expertise without any compensation, and they are willingly dedicating their time from their busy lives to enhance my patterns. Their support is crucial not only for the improvement of my work but also for fostering a collaborative environment where creativity can flourish. I truly appreciate the effort they put in and strive to take their feedback seriously, as it helps me grow and refine my designs.

Once I receive all the feedback from testers, I create the final draft of the pattern and send it to my tech editor for a thorough review. After all the edits have been approved by my tech editor, I prepare the final PDF and get ready to release the pattern! Stay tuned for the final part of this series, where I will discuss the steps I take to launch my newest pattern, the Chinese Money Plant! The next blog post will go live on February 26th!

Learn more about pattern testing in this blog post!