beta

Here's a question: in your travels, have you come across designers looking for beta testers?

As a knitter, were there any 'systems' of beta testing that sounded particularly good to you?

We're wanting to have our patterns beta tested as we move forward and are looking for the best way to have that happen. All feedback welcome, including volunteers and ideas!

Comments

[aija]

I did some sample knitting for cookiea.com a year ago-- she contacted me directly since we knew one another. It worked out well for me, I got to try out her pattern (she supplied the yarn), I was versed enough to offer advice on wording/editing, she kept the samples but I was able to write about them and get some swag for my "trouble."

I know ravelry has a forum for designers that has a dedicated thread on a pool of knitters willing to work as test knitters... for me, I wouldn't test knit for a "stranger" but that's just me and how I apportion my time.

Good luck! :)

[kristi]

I know there's a thread on ravelry. I've had samples knit by students too, which was nice because I was able to help them and understood where any confusions in the pattern were. I've also just paid people and now I know several knitters that I'd hire again. Some people will knit for a chance to have an early free copy of a pattern... Others will knit for the object itself (you provide the yarn, and have a specific understanding that they will get the sample back in 6 months or a year... Long enough for you to photograph it and get what you need from it often). Sometimes, it's best to simply pay for the service. 15 - 20 cents a yard is what you should expect to pay, but do try a new knitter with a small project to be sure that their work meets your requirements!

verbosely yours,

kristi

[Brooke]

Let me know if you would like any help, I've done it before. I'd be thrilled!

[Alison]

I have heard of a couple of designers here in NZ who are non knitters themselves and get others to knit up their design to check the pattern works.

[Rosie]

I've never been a test knitter but I'd love to do it. I think it makes sense to ask people of varying skill levels in order to really get a sense of the clarity of the pattern. Just a thought. Good luck