Pattern Testing
Pattern Testing
I am always looking for talented pattern testers to test my upcoming patterns, so i can get your feedback on the instructions and the quilt. You can truly help me make my patterns the best they can be! I also love to share your makes and I need well lit pictures to do so. With every pattern release, I’m always sharing some of the quilts made by my testers.
Here’s how it works:
Sign Up
Send me an email. Let me know that you are interested and want to be included on my list of pattern testers. I’m looking for testers that can get through a pattern and complete a quilt top in a specified amount of time (usually 3-4 weeks) and take nice pictures of their progress and their work. You need not be an expert, but comfortable enough with the basics and be able to provide feedback by the testing deadline so that I can make any corrections in time for the pattern launch. I prefer you to be on Instagram, but it’s not required. If you are though, send me your handle when you request to be added to the list.
Pre-Testing
After I design a quilt pattern, I usually test it myself first before sending it to testers (this is occasionally not the case, and if so, will be specified to you).
Call for Testers
I send out an email when I have a pattern that needs testing, calling for testers. Based on the pattern description & images, the timeline and deadline and other requirements, you can decide if you would like to test. The testing period is usually 3-4 weeks.
I have many testers on my list, but only need ten or so to test each pattern. Please don’t think because you weren’t chosen to test that it’s anything personal. It’s not! Sometimes I just have a lot of people say that they want to test very quickly.
All testing will take place via email. You’ll receive the pdf pattern and instructions of any specific things I’m worried about. You are expected to complete at least one quilt top (doesn’t have to be quilted). You’ll be expected to turn your notes into me by email before the deadline. I prefer notes to be given to me page by page. For example: page 2, paragraph 4 – word “straight” mispelled or something like that. I’m looking for thorough testers that can find math or grammar errors, anything that you think could be written more simply, punctuation errors, diagram issues, or anything at all about the pattern that you think needs to be a little different. Opinions are welcome! I don’t want you to hold back. I don’t want your notes to say “all looked good or I didn’t find any errors”. I want you to give it to me straight. Every pattern I’ve ever written has been filled with errors that were only found because my testers found them. The accuracy of the quilt pattern depends on your help and any critique you can give me is greatly appreciated.
I prefer your notes when you are finished with your top instead of every time you find an error. Although, if you are having trouble understanding something, just let me know and we can chat.
I’m not looking for professional product photography but will require photos of the finished quilt top. It really helps when your pictures showcase the whole quilt top, held up by someone or hanging that shows the quilt in its entirety. Posting your finished quilt top on launch day and progress photos to Instagram to help me promote the pattern is not required, but greatly appreciated if you choose to do so. If you want to just send me your photos by email that’s fine too! If your photos are well lit and nicely done, I’ll use those in my marketing for the quilt and you will be credited as the maker.
Release
On release day, I usually have a blog post, newsletter and Instagram post and stories go out. I would love it if you could help spread the word about the pattern or blog or post a picture of your quilt that day too.
As a Thank You
Testing is voluntary and not a paid position, but as a thank you I give each of my testers a $20 credit (on release day) at Meander + Make to spend on anything they choose. You’ll need to register an account there in your name, but it only takes a minute or two to complete. You’ll also receive a finished PDF copy of the pattern. I’m currently working on an ongoing fabric discount as well that you’ll receive more details on with each pattern you agree to test (more on this soon).
