What is a Knit Test?

A Test Knit is one of the stages of creating a knitting pattern. It basically involves helping a designer test a pattern before it is released to the public. The tester provides feedback on ways to improve the pattern so that the designer can correct any necessary details before releasing it to the public.

My goal when testing is to preview the pattern. That is, to test that everything is clear and that it can be followed without any major problems. In addition to being able to see the final result and receive feedback on each project in different sizes.

The information I provide about Test Knits is based on my experience to date participating as a tester and organizing my own tests . It is quite possible that there are different points of view on the subject.

Stages of a Knit Test

Each designer executes their Test Knit as it works best for them - there is no manual for organizing tests - but we could accept the following steps as a general idea of ​​its different stages.

1. A designer puts out a call, usually on social media or by email, sharing the details of the design to be tested and the requirements to participate.
2. Interested parties apply, answering the questions the designer needs and accepting the requirements.
3. If selected, the tester will receive a copy of the pattern and then begin knitting the garment.
4. The tester can ask questions and make suggestions, and will notify the designer of any errors found during his/her participation. The means of communication can be through groups on social networks, or by email.
5. The process is completed within the timeframe defined by the designer, and feedback on the design and process is provided as requested by the designer. A Ravelry project will usually be requested to be created to link to the pattern before it is released.
6. The tester can help promote the design on launch day and receives recognition for their help.

As far as I'm concerned, I add one more step before starting a testing process. The pattern goes through a first technical edit before testing . Since the editor and I are human, we may miss a few details, but I always hope that it's minimal. Still, it's possible that during testing some errors may be found that force the knitting to be taken apart. That's something you should consider as a possibility.

Requirements to participate in a Test Knit

Every designer has their own expectations and requirements. Here are mine:

After the registration period is complete, the selection will be in order of registration (the first one to register will be given the spots by size), provided that all requirements are met. The number of participants per size is limited. In general, there are 3 people per size. Sometimes more, sometimes less, depending on the type of design.

What I specifically ask for is to have a Ravelry and Instagram account, and to have a certain level of autonomy when knitting. I explain each of these requirements below:

Ravelry: Checking your Ravelry account allows me to see what projects you have knitted, so I make sure you have created projects. It is also very important for me because it is one of my main work tools. After finishing a test , each participant must upload the information of their project in their account and link it to the pattern. This way, when the pattern is published, other knitters interested in knitting it can look at these projects for information and inspiration.

Instagram : It is also an important work tool for me, to be able to show the projects and the different versions of the design, in a variety of sizes and colors. Ideally, you can share the photos of your project from your account, but it is also possible that I will ask you for a photo to share directly on mine.

Autonomy: Although you can learn a lot by participating in a test knit , it is not essentially a workshop or knitting course. Therefore, whatever your knitting experience, it is necessary that you first try to resolve any doubts you have about the pattern by using the tools provided in the pattern itself. You will find help in the description of abbreviations and techniques, and in the links to explanatory videos of the more complex techniques. This allows me to know if the pattern is sufficiently clear and self-explanatory.

Why participate in a Test Knit

Specifically, at the end of the process you will receive the official version of the pattern for your Ravelry library and my sincere thanks. Additionally, you should know that participating in a test knit is an excellent way to meet other knitters, learn new techniques and increase your presence on social networks. You can connect with other knitters and build a community in a much closer and more entertaining way.

If you are not yet receiving the emails with the invitations to participate in my Test Knits , you can sign up here:

Would you be willing to participate in any of them?