I have always crocheted my own things. The teapot cosies I used to make were completely unique and designed by me and I've made a few things from my own head. I have most recently been designing a hoodie. I have designed it to not have side seams, just seams at the the shoulders and to attach the sleeves and hood. I find this more challenging, taking a concept in my head to notes and drawings, to maths and creating. I write my patterns as I am actually making the first one. This helps me figure out pattern repeats, row numbers and shaping.
I will then technical edit the pattern and make sure the language is correct, before hopefully sending it to a select few for testing. The job of a pattern tester is very important because they help me find any mistakes I may have missed in the technical edit and helps me see it made by other people.
I have a list of items to design and write up so I'll need a few testers regularly. There will be a variety of skills in each pattern, from beginner to advanced and each pattern will have a skill level. The one I am currently making is an advanced level pattern.
There are a few rules to follow.
You must not sell my pattern.
You must provide feedback, on size, gauge, skill level, etc to any questions I ask in the initial email.
You must provide photos of the completed item to use on my social media.
There will be a time limit to get items tested by. This will usually be anywhere from a week to 4 weeks, depending on what it is. This is important, that I receive the feedback within a time limit so I can publish the pattern in a timely manner.
Let me know if you would like to sign up to be a pattern tester.