My gripe with test knits is definitely the free advertising. There has been a lot of patterns up for testing recently that have extremely tight, nearly impossible deadlines that end like the day before the pattern is due to launch. That is so obviously the designer just using knitters for free advertising. The point of a TEST should be to see if the pattern needs adjusting. If you don’t have the time to make those changes before the launch then you’re not having a “test” knit. You’re handing out free patterns in exchange for free advertising. If people want to do that then fine, but be honest about it. The only patterns I’ve tested were for small new designers. No strict deadline, no demands for posting or not posting, no specific yarn requirements, and if you have to adjust something because the pattern didn’t work or wasn’t clear, they want to know that so they can make changes if necessary. It is wild to me that designers think they put all these demands on testers and have us be thankful for the “opportunity”. Also, why are you limiting the number of testers? If you’re providing the yarn I get it, but if all you’re providing is the pattern why do you want to limit the number of testers? I’m sure feedback from like 100 people is too many but most designers seem to cap at like 4 or 5. Surely you want more diversity than that? Anyway my point is, if you want to test patterns, be picky. You do not need to knit that mid length dress in fingering weight yarn in 3 weeks or less just so the designer has pretty pictures for Ravelry. Go find a budding designer and offer them your help to actually test the pattern and give them good feedback on how to improve the pattern.
yes so true, i’ve come to realise that is what it is a lot of the time! i agree about being picky, so long as you love the project then it’s beneficial all round 💕
Regular test knitter here (I'm in the middle or two rn) Your experience is very much down to the designer and knowing what red flags to look for. I've learnt the hard way so now I always stick to small designers: -They are desperate for a range of sizes so as a plus size person I always get accepted. -If you message them beforehand they almost always let you make any adjustments to the pattern to better suit your style. -They are less daunting to reach out to. -Building a relationship will get you priority next time they put a call out. -They are more forgiving about extensions. -They post a lot of pictures so it's easy to see what you're getting into before you sign up.
Agreed! Plus whenever I’ve test knitted I’ve done it for new designers who I’d been in contact with before. So I don’t see it as unpaid labour but rather as a favour to an internet friend.
Nice video, thank you! For me, competition and regection is never a problem (maybe because I am a professional dancer and went through competitions since I am 7), but the main reason why I dont do test knits, because they are unpaid. I am 100% sure it is work that has to be paid, since we are knitting according to specs, making beauitful pics with the finished object, posting new content, therefore advertising the design, meeting deadlines, and I just would never do it "for free". If the designer would reach out to me, sponsor the yarn and pay for the test, I think I might go for it if I really love the design.
I've heard designers online saying they were going to put out a call for test knitters, and I was curious who responds to them. I always have enough of my own projects going on - who has time to knit for free for someone else's benefit, with your own yarn and a DEADLINE? I assumed knitwear designers rely heavily on friends and fans to do this, and also assumed that they are immensely grateful. I had no idea that people compete for this. Well, God bless you, test knitters, I fear I will not join your ranks.
I would have thought they would provide the yarn! Like a store that gets people to make quilts for them - they provide all the fabrics for the project! This sounds like a Tom Sawyer/Huck Finn- painting the fence episode. Just wow. I can't believe knitters fall for the "privilege"!
test knitting is basically only for the benefit of the designer and you just have to be aware of that; just decide for yourself if that's worth it for you - maybe you like "helping out" others with a test knit, or you really want to work for a designer you admire... but sometimes that's the only benefit, and (like you said) it might end with you not liking that designer anymore because of a negative experience btw you're so right on exactly following the pattern for a test-knit... sometimes I'll watch a vlog of a tester and they say they changed XYZ in the pattern bc they liked it better... like that's not the point of the test, though??? how is it helping the designer if you completely change a part? (unless of course the given instructions don't work at all, but then you should notify and wait for changes)
this video really hit home for me! Especially the „feeling rejected part“. I have one particular designer I like so much and I have applied for every single one of her tests and have never gotten into one. So now, bc I realize this is a me issue lol, I don’t apply anymore bc I love her designs and personality and I don’t want to ruin that by me feeling rejected from tests that probably 500+ people apply to. The deadline also wasn’t a positive pressure for me, I found myself being very anxious about not finishing in time and making me enjoy the project less bc I felt like I HAD to work on it, and knit fast. Also, test knits usually end up being an extra expense for me. I rarely have the perfect combination in stash and -exposing myself here - I have found that I tried to convince the designers with my yarn choice in the test knitting application, putting down not as widely available yarns (ofc yarn I wanted to knit with for a long time) and then after I felt like I had to commit to what I put down to not disappoint. I think, test knitting is also not me for anymore. Here or there maybe if I am completely obsessed with the design and have yarn ready. Otherwise, I need to restrain myself. Thank you for a great videon
definitely can relate to that! i feel the pressure to knit with a “nicer” yarn (ie often more expensive) than i would usually go for, and then it compounds the stress! we sound very similar ❤️
Interesting! All totally fair takes. They’re not generally things that bother me - I’m plus-sized, so it’s easier to get picked; I’m also not really trying to develop a social media presence, so am not fussed about posting restrictions or getting traffic sent my way. But they’re fair observations and things a prospective test knitter should consider. I definitely agree that it feels like test knitting should be a way you can tap into the designer’s following and grow your own, but that it doesn’t really work that way. Honestly for me the most valuable thing about test knitting is the structure you alluded to. Knitting for someone else (where I get to keep the final product!) is one of the only things gets me to finish projects. I’m really really bad about casting on new projects/perservering with old ones, and I really like that test knitting gets me to finish things. Admittedly, there’s also something fun about being one of the first people to see a particular pattern. There’s no real reason it should be! But it still kinda is for me.
you’re definitely right, it does force you to finish projects! to be fair i am a nightmare for starting wips that i never finish (or take years) but all my test knits have been done and dusted quite quickly. i never really thought of that before - really good point!!
I've test-knitted and crocheted a lot, totaling 6,279 yards across 20 projects. I think it all comes down to managing expectations, understanding your preferences, and time management. I've had the opportunity to test some well-known patterns, which has been amazing for me! I enjoy the challenge of finding mistakes and the aspect of the journey. I approach each project with no expectations, but I also set clear boundaries. First, if I don't like the project, I won't test it. I don't test sweaters because I'm not a sweater knitter(also in Alabama), and socks take too long due to their size (I wear a woman's size US 13). If I know a project will put me under time pressure, I don't apply for it. As an older knitter, I view it as a form of community service, done for the designer without payment, simply for fun. I've also done sample knits where I was sent the yarn and pattern and had to knit and send it back, but I was compensated with yarn. I've been offered two separate paid sample knitting positions, with a set amount of money per time frame and yarn support for the projects, and would be required to send the completed object back. However, I turned them down because I want my hobby to be a stress reliever, not something I have to prioritize above everything else.
100% agree with your viewpoint on test knitting Issy!! Also omg so happy I inspired this?? Thank you for tagging me! It really does stunt the growth of your page/channel because you have to be so focussed on the test knit. Also I always felt bad by seeing how fast other people were knitting the test knit up and I was always up the the last wire 😤 I am done for test knitting (just finished one tg) and I need to focus on my own work. Great video 🙌🏻
The only time I have ever been upset about not being chosen is because she never even bothered to tell me that she didn't choose me. I no longer follow her or buy her patterns.
Thank you for creating this video. As a new knitter I’ve wondered about the whole test knitter thing I hear so much about. And after listening to your reasoning it’s entirely possible this isn’t the thing for me either. I found myself nodding my head at a LOT of points you made. The upside though is that I found your channel and am now your newest subscriber. Looking forward to discovering more of your videos!
This is so interesting to me! I completely follow your train of thought and feel similarly about rejection, but for me it all stops at tedy knitting. I was slightly sad not to get selected for a test recently, but only because I want that sweater!! But I might just buy the pattern when it's out. I'm in a tedt right now and asked the designer if I could modify the pattern slightly and she agreed and has been great when we offer feedback. Anyway, my experiences testing have always been good! And I also see how some of the things that make it enjoyable for me, if not done well, would make the entire process no fun. That said, I've unintentionally followed advice given above and tested for small-scale designers. The tests have always felt like an intimate knitting circle and it's just a good time all around 😊
Thank you for this video! I'm a designer from back in the day who started out working in clothing companies. For me the "test knit" was working with the factories or hand knit communities who were always paid and supplied with the yarns and miscellaneous trims. What we call the prototypes, size run, and sample lines. I'm older and have come full circle to almost exclusively spending my time on hand knitting and writing patterns. So far I have only offered up one size items or in the case of hats, I will knit up all the sizes to check. I'm really dying to get my sweaters out there but the thought of asking people to buy yarn and knit for free is, well, not what I believe in. I'm hoping at some point to afford sample makers. What an interesting topic!
that’s so interesting! it’s a really tough situation for designers i am sure, there are some people out there who seem to really love test knitting which is great and mutually beneficial to all. sadly there are also those like me who sign up and then grumble about it later 😂😅 your designs are absolutely beautiful by the way, the chicken stocking is now on my to-knit list for christmas!!
Your most recent video got pushed to my UA-cam recs, which I a so grateful for! Love your vibe and I can 100% agree on the pettiness 😂 I’ve applied to test-knit maybe 4 times and have only tested 1 pattern. I was only slightly offended those previous times, but thankful I did’t have to purchase an entire sweater quantity worth of yarn 😅
I've test knited 3 or 4 times now, and it always was a test, so designers were interested to hear feedback, and there was enough time to finish the test knit without any stress. But there is another part I don't like about test knitting, and I rarely apply for it. In addition to the reason you said in your video, no much possibility to adjust the pattern, you can't also put it on pause in case you lost interest in it, or you need to knit something else. You just have to finish on time, no matter what.
I've been considering applying for a test knit lately, but I've had all of these thoughts in the back of my mind the whole time. Thanks for articulating it so well and giving my ego a little slap upside the head. I mean, honestly, why would I want to put myself into that kind of deadline pressure to knit who knows what?! 😅
learn from my mistakes 😂😂😂 i think some people are well suited but if you’re anything like me (and sounds like you are!) best just knit what you want to knit 💕
I’ve test knit a lot and I generally pick things where I’ll learn a new skill. I tend to pick up stuff on Ravelry and Yarnpond where it’s much less what you’re describing I know have designers I regularly test for and I love it. I always learn something, I find new yarn (tho I tend to knit from stash) and I love a deadline. The ones that annoy me are those that insist on you posting on an open insta. I can’t have one because of my job. I’ve always been gifted patterns for testing and had great designers who value feedback. I only do patterns I actually want to knit
I'm a crocheter...I can knit but I really need to get better at it. I have done one test for a crocheted shawl and enjoyed that. I've since applied for literally over thirty tests and have never gotten picked, so I gave up. My IG is small and even though I've been crocheting for literally decades. It's ridiculous. So I stopped even bothering to apply and have started just doing what I enjoy. :)
Test knitting drama! I love it🤣 Anyway, as for my experience, I test knitted only once before, and that was a great experience for me: firstly it was a small accessory, so no fit issues, quite easy process (even though I didn't know one of the tecniques required and I actually learnt that though the test knit). It was from a new designer, but a person I've followed for a while over on instagram and yt, so I thougt I could trust. Also I should say, it was my very first time applying for a test knit and I got accepted. Amazing feeling in the moment, but that didn't last very long because over the course of this year I then applied for five additional test knits (all from designers I follow and admire) and I was rejected each and every time. You're right, that kinda sucks😅 I felt a lil silly to think it but I did feel disappointed and kinda sad nonetheless. So now before applying I try to really think if I love the garment and I'm willing to accept a potential rejection (that has nothing to do with me, it's nothing personal, it's just due to the fact that there're many people willing to test, and just not as many spots- that's my opinion at least)
so glad you had a nice testing experience and my commiserations on the rejections, i feel your pain!! definitely good to be aware of the possibility before test knitting, though doesn’t make it sting any less 😂❤️
I'm an avid tester for crochet patterns. I don't mind that it's unpaid. Every crochet designer I've tested for gave me a free pattern as a thank you, which I know isn't "enough" for most, but I don't mind it. For me, testing makes my ADHD self get things done because of a deadline! Most things I start on my own, I don't finish. But it's not for everyone, that's for sure!
that’s so true and something that on reflection, i can see the benefit of. i do have some lovely finished items from my test knits that realistically if they were self -initiated, they would still be in my wip pile 😂
@@issyknits i do agree with a lot of your points though. Testing can be kind of a pain if you are with a designer who is only using you for marketing. And it can be a bit of a blow to the self esteem if you're not chosen.
I have not done a test knit yet - there are only 2 designers that I would consider, but can't give it the time commitment for another year. They have photos from different angles on the tester call so you know what you are making and one gives a discount code if you want to use whatever yarn they are partnering with (though not necessary to use that yarn). The mystery test knits would never work for me. I'm too picky with what I make.
those sound like ideal designers to test for and probably really enjoyable tests! definitely good to be conscious of those sort of things before applying 💕
@@issyknits I completely understand why you aren't doing these anymore. Also am glad I found your channel yesterday! Lots of love from the Pacific Northwest 🧡
I’ve done 1 test knit before and the designer listed the wrong yarn weight in the test application. I was still a relatively new knitter at the time and didn’t properly understand yarn weights, gauge needle sizes ect so I went out and bought yarn that was the weight she’d listed and it wasn’t suitable for the pattern at all (the design was a summer slip-style dress and she’d recommended fingering weight yarn for 5mm needles, the fabric was completely see through and not at all wearable, or comparable to the fabric shown in her sample) I tried everything to get the yarn to work as I was primarily test knitting to help with the cost of the hobby as I didn’t have a lot of money at the time and couldn’t afford to get another dress quantity of yarn. I ended up not finishing and she wasn’t necessarily overly nice about it. I think my biggest issue with the situation was that it really knocked my confidence with the craft because it was such a horrible experience. I still have that yarn in my stash today as I still haven’t thought of something else to use it for 🙁
oh no that sounds like a horrible experience, i’m so sorry that happened! fingering weight on 5mm is madness and can imagine it must’ve been very revealing indeed 😂😅 i’m not surprised you’ve been put off future test knits! who needs the stress especially when you are just trying to follow their instructions! ❤️🩹
I've done over 70 test knits. I only choose patterns I like and that I have the yarn for. I never buy new yarn for a test; would rather knit down my massive stash. I've had issues with unrealistic deadlines in the past (shawls or sweaters in 2 weeks? 😂). I've had to withdraw from only two tests - one due to a hand injury, and the other pattern had so many errors and revisions, I just opted out. She was releasing revisions about every 2 days, no indication of what the change was, and no consideration for how far along the testers were in the pattern! Nope.
I sometimes like test knitting as it makes me finish the item otherwise I start many projects and don’t finish them. However I don’t test that much these days as sometimes I travel and don’t have time to do any knitting or work gets extremely busy. When I test knit I like to provide critical feedback as I feel it will help improve the pattern and make the people who buy it less frustrated knitting it. I get annoyed when other test knitters are always so positive when testing and later when I buy the pattern I find places that are not explained sufficiently or things don’t make sense.
that’s a really good point, it definitely helps for motivation to finish! i fear many of my test knits would have become abandoned wips otherwise 😅😂 definitely people can be soo over positive and then you feel like a downer for bringing up a glaringly obvious mistake that everyone else apparently just skipped over fine? 😅 it can be very frustrating!
Nah. never appealed. I am a slow knitter, so knitting to a schedule is not attractive to me. And I don't like being told what to do, or put pictures of myself online. I also don't do social media and can't be bothered to do nice pictures of my work (when I bother taking any pictures at all)
I regularly test knit for a friend who is gaining profile in nz (where I live) but I do it as a friend and only if I'm going to wear the item. My friend is always so grateful for her test knitters. I did test knit once for another designer who set stage deadlines and expected weekly progress reports. And when I commented a part was confusing she didn't respond well.
Thank you for being so open about your experience. I once applied to test crochet a summer top in size s. Once we got the pattern, it said we should make a gauge swatch and not block it. I feared that if I would follow the unblocked gauge, my top would become too big. The designer stuck to her opinion and I cancelled the test. What was the point of crocheting a garment that wouldn't fit me in the end? I then had to pay for the pattern - which I thought was reasonable, since theoretically, I could have used the whole drama just to receive the pattern for free... but it was my last time test crocheting and I decided never to do it again.
I watched the video while working on a project for my 3rd ever test knit😅 I had a pretty good experience so far, but I also only tested socks and only for designers I already like I can definitly see myself test knitting more, but your video was really helpful in setting myself my own boundaries for test knitting!
I like your take on testing because you bring up some things I've had to work through to personally love it. I've test knit 7? times now, so I've gotten experience with what you talked about. Now I have my own rules of what I will or won't test. I would knit the pattern anyways I already have enough yarn I'm confident I can make the deadline I'm confident in the skills I need Test takes place on Ravelry Most importantly: there's not a scramble of other people wanting to test as well. From what I've witnessed, Instagram testers can be crazy and therefore designers need forms to make sure nobody will run off with the pattern or take indefinitely to finish. There's been several instances where I get so close to signing up and then realize that it breaks too many of my rules. Takes a lot of impulse control 😂
that’s a really healthy approach! i think test taking place on ravelry is probably a huge one, i’ve only tested via instagram which probably explains some of my experiences 😂😂
For as long as I have the time I will keep test knitting bc my brain thinks 80 hours of knitting in six weeks is less than spending £7 on the pattern so I can knit at my own pace!
I've stopped applying. I had a few where the pattern was such a mess and wasn't tech edited before we got it. Some designers didn't communicate with us and went on vacation. I gave feedback regarding accessibility because they asked me to provide that feedback specifically, none of it was used. They asked to Zoom with me to talk about that feedback then never contacted me back when I messaged them regarding that meeting. I have one friend I will still test for, but I typically don't have time so I don't offer.
Interesting takes! I used to test knit a lot, but now I’m far more selective. I’ve run into too many designers begging for men to test their “unisex” patterns that have been graded to a women’s size chart while refusing any modifications that accommodate common masculine body features, such as a deeper yoke, larger arm circumference, longer sleeves/body, etc. Just don’t ask me how many test knits I did before I started standing my ground when requested for a test or when applying for one 😂
that’s really interesting and somehow doesn’t surprise me!! 😂😅 when i’ve tried to search men’s patterns on ravelry, i see a lot of “unisex” fits that seem awfully like they are just for women! are there are good designers for men’s patterns that you would recommend?
THIS! I have never even considered doing one because of all the reasons you list here. I also do not gift knit which is a very unpopular stance. I will make stuff for my kids and husband but that's about it. The most I might do is a hat for someone.
you’re very wise! i have fallen down the giftknitting trap too many times 😂 i avoid it now too for the most part, it’s not worth it unless the recipient definitely wants the thing and understands the process (which is very rarely the case!!)
I'm currently doing my sixth test knit. The external deadline means I actually finish my project instead of casting on the next shiny project. This current one is breaking my self-imposed test knit ban which was so I could focus on other projects. I enjoy the test knit groups with people sharing pictures and questions. I've been able to substitute fibre from animals based to plant-based yarns and add ~2" to body lengths for them. I only get accepted on about half the ones that I apply to and you don't always get rejection messages. Meant when I didn't get contacted by the date specified in the application that I applied for another. Only the first one was just a week behind her schedule and I ended up doing 3 test knits at once. Only one of the test knits has been really confusing and had to be started over due to short rows being changed. I guess thats part of test knitting though. Often the small mistakes are noticed by faster knitters before me or its small stitch count errors for my size. It a love/hate relationship that's mostly love. Although I swear I'm gonna stop so I can knit one of the hundred other projects I want to knit.
wow three test knits at once is intense!! it’s really good you’ve found what works for you and enjoy it, that’s the main thing ❤️ they are lucky to have you!
So interesting, I've thought about test knitting but I don't have an online profile myself so I don't imagine I'd ever get selected. I love to knit and have created my own designs and developed my skills over years, and I could certainly give feedback on a pattern, but I wouldn't be much of an asset to somebody who wanted advertising.
i think to be fair there are lots of designers who genuinely want feedback however i suspect their tests are run privately or on ravelry so im not sure what they look like!
I've taken a few test for crochet that I don't like just to prove ive been a tester before 😂 for the ones I'd really like to do in the future 🤣 but now I'm kind of off it cause I've been making things I won't wear lol
You did make me laugh as I have done a few test knits and had similar experiences but the advantage of my having a few years on you is that I really don't care! The things that amuse me most are the competitiveness within the group as to who can finish first ( some people must do nothing but knit all day without pause for food or sleep) and the pile on that occurs if you tentatively suggest an alternative way of doing something. never from the designers in my experience who have been uniformly gracious even if deciding not to follow my suggestion.
i hope to be less bothered by these things one day 😂 ah you’re so right, the people who somehow are almost finished a week into the test when i’m still picking my yarn 😂😅
I've seen test knitters who comment that they changed parts of the pattern or used a different weight of yarn and I've wondered what the designer thought of that. Personally, I don't seem to get through a pattern without making modifications, so I won't be volunteering. I'm happy developing my own designs just for me.
Great summary! I've never test knitted and was on the fence on what I thought about it but this video aligns with all the issues I saw with it. This is my first video of your that I'm seeing and I'll be on the lookout for more. Just one bit of feedback, the sound on headphones seems to be coming out from only one side, perhaps try recording in stereo?
thank you so much for pointing this out! it’s a new mic and exactly as you say it seems like it’s recorded on one side only 😅 will go and troubleshoot what happened and fix for the next one. glad you enjoyed and better sound to come!! 🙌
I've patterned tested for a few designers, and thankfully, for the most part, my experience has been good ☺ However, even then, not all pattern tests are created equal! I've had groups of other testers that gave me more grief than the pattern test itself 💀
Very true. I had a test crocheter calling (!) the whole group (!) via the Instagram chat by mistake and she was in the US while I was asleep in Europe... 🙃
I’ve only applied to test knitting twice. I didn’t get picked. But in reality I don’t have the time with all my other WIPs staring back at me. I think it would have to be a pattern that I see first and must have it in my wardrobe.
The idea of anyone doing test-knitting has always been wild to me. I see what the designer gets out of it, but i've never understood what the knitter gets besides a bit of attention from the designer. Cultish, tbh.
I've never applied to be a test knitter because I just know if I don't get picked I'll feel upset and if I do I'll just tell myself "oh they probably had very little people applying..." and why am I putting myself through all that just to work for free??? Besides if there are sizing mistakes and I end up with a piece that doesn't really fit and I don't wear I spent all that time and money for nothing
@@issyknits it’s really just the worst possible evolution for test knitting. Way back when (pre rav), when I have tested I always received yarn, and another pattern of my choice from the designer. (And sometimes payment in money!) These days it seems like testers are really being taken advantage of. This trend is really the worst.
I have been knitting for over 40 years. Never test knit and never intend to. It is so tedious that this has become a status-y, clic y thing. People do this for the status, just to say that they have an “in” with these designers. Most of these people just like dropping names. I don’t follow anyone who brags about this endlessly. It is cringey. No thanks, I will pay the 8 bucks for the pattern and whatever the yarn costs. Easier that way.
And then you hear designers complaining about testers not following through while heavily implying they are scammers who stole a pattern rather than busy humans who have unpredictable lives and a hefty dose of shame over their failures.
Interesting video. I completely agree. I never understood the appeal of test knitting. Why would I want to spend my precious knitting time on a pattern that could have mistakes? And it is unpaid, with a deadline and I need to use/buy my own yarn? No thanks. I rather pay the money to buy the final pattern.
so true! i think the longer i knit the more i understand i can only realistically complete a handful of big projects every year, so they need to be ones i really want to do!
it’s the hollyland lark m1 - my first time using it! annoyingly i’ve messed up the sound somehow so it’s coming out single sided, so need to look into that 😂
thanks for mentioning this, someone else noted the same and it’s a new mic and is only recording to one side 😅 if you listen again with the other side of your headphones you should be able to hear it. will fix it on the next one!
It's the same for me on a tv. It has stereo settings which I can't turn off. For the next time, even if it records in mono, you can duplicate the audio track to have it stereo 😊 @@issyknits
Test knits: competitive, unpaid, thankless labour- WHAT'S NOT TO LOVE?? 😝
😂😂 so true!!
My gripe with test knits is definitely the free advertising. There has been a lot of patterns up for testing recently that have extremely tight, nearly impossible deadlines that end like the day before the pattern is due to launch. That is so obviously the designer just using knitters for free advertising. The point of a TEST should be to see if the pattern needs adjusting. If you don’t have the time to make those changes before the launch then you’re not having a “test” knit. You’re handing out free patterns in exchange for free advertising. If people want to do that then fine, but be honest about it.
The only patterns I’ve tested were for small new designers. No strict deadline, no demands for posting or not posting, no specific yarn requirements, and if you have to adjust something because the pattern didn’t work or wasn’t clear, they want to know that so they can make changes if necessary.
It is wild to me that designers think they put all these demands on testers and have us be thankful for the “opportunity”.
Also, why are you limiting the number of testers? If you’re providing the yarn I get it, but if all you’re providing is the pattern why do you want to limit the number of testers? I’m sure feedback from like 100 people is too many but most designers seem to cap at like 4 or 5. Surely you want more diversity than that?
Anyway my point is, if you want to test patterns, be picky. You do not need to knit that mid length dress in fingering weight yarn in 3 weeks or less just so the designer has pretty pictures for Ravelry. Go find a budding designer and offer them your help to actually test the pattern and give them good feedback on how to improve the pattern.
yes so true, i’ve come to realise that is what it is a lot of the time! i agree about being picky, so long as you love the project then it’s beneficial all round 💕
So true. I think a large part of limiting the number of testers also relates to pattern sales. If you like it, they want you to buy it.
Regular test knitter here (I'm in the middle or two rn)
Your experience is very much down to the designer and knowing what red flags to look for. I've learnt the hard way so now I always stick to small designers:
-They are desperate for a range of sizes so as a plus size person I always get accepted.
-If you message them beforehand they almost always let you make any adjustments to the pattern to better suit your style.
-They are less daunting to reach out to.
-Building a relationship will get you priority next time they put a call out.
-They are more forgiving about extensions.
-They post a lot of pictures so it's easy to see what you're getting into before you sign up.
that’s really good advice and a really good distinction! great to know you’ve had positive experiences with smaller designers 💕
Agreed! Plus whenever I’ve test knitted I’ve done it for new designers who I’d been in contact with before. So I don’t see it as unpaid labour but rather as a favour to an internet friend.
Nice video, thank you! For me, competition and regection is never a problem (maybe because I am a professional dancer and went through competitions since I am 7), but the main reason why I dont do test knits, because they are unpaid. I am 100% sure it is work that has to be paid, since we are knitting according to specs, making beauitful pics with the finished object, posting new content, therefore advertising the design, meeting deadlines, and I just would never do it "for free". If the designer would reach out to me, sponsor the yarn and pay for the test, I think I might go for it if I really love the design.
so so true, it’s so much work for no payment!! 😅
I've heard designers online saying they were going to put out a call for test knitters, and I was curious who responds to them. I always have enough of my own projects going on - who has time to knit for free for someone else's benefit, with your own yarn and a DEADLINE? I assumed knitwear designers rely heavily on friends and fans to do this, and also assumed that they are immensely grateful. I had no idea that people compete for this. Well, God bless you, test knitters, I fear I will not join your ranks.
😅😂 yes for sure, that’s us!! glad i’ve figured it out now though, you had the right idea early on!
I loved it the one time I did, but I super wanted to make the project!
I would have thought they would provide the yarn! Like a store that gets people to make quilts for them - they provide all the fabrics for the project! This sounds like a Tom Sawyer/Huck Finn- painting the fence episode. Just wow. I can't believe knitters fall for the "privilege"!
@@beckypetersen2680 I don’t think most designers make that much money off their patterns to buy yarn for all their knitters!
test knitting is basically only for the benefit of the designer and you just have to be aware of that; just decide for yourself if that's worth it for you - maybe you like "helping out" others with a test knit, or you really want to work for a designer you admire... but sometimes that's the only benefit, and (like you said) it might end with you not liking that designer anymore because of a negative experience
btw you're so right on exactly following the pattern for a test-knit... sometimes I'll watch a vlog of a tester and they say they changed XYZ in the pattern bc they liked it better... like that's not the point of the test, though??? how is it helping the designer if you completely change a part? (unless of course the given instructions don't work at all, but then you should notify and wait for changes)
yes so true - that’s definitely what i’ve realised 😅
this video really hit home for me! Especially the „feeling rejected part“. I have one particular designer I like so much and I have applied for every single one of her tests and have never gotten into one. So now, bc I realize this is a me issue lol, I don’t apply anymore bc I love her designs and personality and I don’t want to ruin that by me feeling rejected from tests that probably 500+ people apply to. The deadline also wasn’t a positive pressure for me, I found myself being very anxious about not finishing in time and making me enjoy the project less bc I felt like I HAD to work on it, and knit fast.
Also, test knits usually end up being an extra expense for me. I rarely have the perfect combination in stash and -exposing myself here - I have found that I tried to convince the designers with my yarn choice in the test knitting application, putting down not as widely available yarns (ofc yarn I wanted to knit with for a long time) and then after I felt like I had to commit to what I put down to not disappoint.
I think, test knitting is also not me for anymore. Here or there maybe if I am completely obsessed with the design and have yarn ready. Otherwise, I need to restrain myself.
Thank you for a great videon
definitely can relate to that! i feel the pressure to knit with a “nicer” yarn (ie often more expensive) than i would usually go for, and then it compounds the stress! we sound very similar ❤️
Interesting! All totally fair takes. They’re not generally things that bother me - I’m plus-sized, so it’s easier to get picked; I’m also not really trying to develop a social media presence, so am not fussed about posting restrictions or getting traffic sent my way. But they’re fair observations and things a prospective test knitter should consider. I definitely agree that it feels like test knitting should be a way you can tap into the designer’s following and grow your own, but that it doesn’t really work that way.
Honestly for me the most valuable thing about test knitting is the structure you alluded to. Knitting for someone else (where I get to keep the final product!) is one of the only things gets me to finish projects. I’m really really bad about casting on new projects/perservering with old ones, and I really like that test knitting gets me to finish things.
Admittedly, there’s also something fun about being one of the first people to see a particular pattern. There’s no real reason it should be! But it still kinda is for me.
you’re definitely right, it does force you to finish projects! to be fair i am a nightmare for starting wips that i never finish (or take years) but all my test knits have been done and dusted quite quickly. i never really thought of that before - really good point!!
I've test-knitted and crocheted a lot, totaling 6,279 yards across 20 projects. I think it all comes down to managing expectations, understanding your preferences, and time management. I've had the opportunity to test some well-known patterns, which has been amazing for me! I enjoy the challenge of finding mistakes and the aspect of the journey. I approach each project with no expectations, but I also set clear boundaries. First, if I don't like the project, I won't test it. I don't test sweaters because I'm not a sweater knitter(also in Alabama), and socks take too long due to their size (I wear a woman's size US 13). If I know a project will put me under time pressure, I don't apply for it. As an older knitter, I view it as a form of community service, done for the designer without payment, simply for fun. I've also done sample knits where I was sent the yarn and pattern and had to knit and send it back, but I was compensated with yarn. I've been offered two separate paid sample knitting positions, with a set amount of money per time frame and yarn support for the projects, and would be required to send the completed object back. However, I turned them down because I want my hobby to be a stress reliever, not something I have to prioritize above everything else.
definitely, those are some great boundaries to have! i so agree with your ultimate point - it’s not meant to be stressful when it’s for fun!
Whenever I have seen a call for test knitters it looked like a call for people to advertise for free rather than to test the pattern.
i think that’s mostly true!
100% agree with your viewpoint on test knitting Issy!! Also omg so happy I inspired this?? Thank you for tagging me! It really does stunt the growth of your page/channel because you have to be so focussed on the test knit. Also I always felt bad by seeing how fast other people were knitting the test knit up and I was always up the the last wire 😤 I am done for test knitting (just finished one tg) and I need to focus on my own work. Great video 🙌🏻
yess so true, it’s the sad thing i’ve realised! sadder that it took my 4 tries to figure that out 😂😂 defo i’m the same!
The only time I have ever been upset about not being chosen is because she never even bothered to tell me that she didn't choose me. I no longer follow her or buy her patterns.
that sucks, it really sticks with you doesn’t it!
Thank you for creating this video. As a new knitter I’ve wondered about the whole test knitter thing I hear so much about. And after listening to your reasoning it’s entirely possible this isn’t the thing for me either. I found myself nodding my head at a LOT of points you made. The upside though is that I found your channel and am now your newest subscriber. Looking forward to discovering more of your videos!
aw yay i’m so glad to hear it was helpful! 💕
This is so interesting to me! I completely follow your train of thought and feel similarly about rejection, but for me it all stops at tedy knitting. I was slightly sad not to get selected for a test recently, but only because I want that sweater!! But I might just buy the pattern when it's out. I'm in a tedt right now and asked the designer if I could modify the pattern slightly and she agreed and has been great when we offer feedback. Anyway, my experiences testing have always been good! And I also see how some of the things that make it enjoyable for me, if not done well, would make the entire process no fun. That said, I've unintentionally followed advice given above and tested for small-scale designers. The tests have always felt like an intimate knitting circle and it's just a good time all around 😊
that sounds great and exactly as it should be 💕
Thank you for this video! I'm a designer from back in the day who started out working in clothing companies. For me the "test knit" was working with the factories or hand knit communities who were always paid and supplied with the yarns and miscellaneous trims. What we call the prototypes, size run, and sample lines. I'm older and have come full circle to almost exclusively spending my time on hand knitting and writing patterns. So far I have only offered up one size items or in the case of hats, I will knit up all the sizes to check. I'm really dying to get my sweaters out there but the thought of asking people to buy yarn and knit for free is, well, not what I believe in. I'm hoping at some point to afford sample makers. What an interesting topic!
that’s so interesting! it’s a really tough situation for designers i am sure, there are some people out there who seem to really love test knitting which is great and mutually beneficial to all. sadly there are also those like me who sign up and then grumble about it later 😂😅 your designs are absolutely beautiful by the way, the chicken stocking is now on my to-knit list for christmas!!
Your most recent video got pushed to my UA-cam recs, which I a so grateful for!
Love your vibe and I can 100% agree on the pettiness 😂 I’ve applied to test-knit maybe 4 times and have only tested 1 pattern. I was only slightly offended those previous times, but thankful I did’t have to purchase an entire sweater quantity worth of yarn 😅
aw yay i’m so pleased!! yes it’s true, a blessing in disguise!
Thank you for this! I have at times considered trying test knitting, but this has definitely convinced me not to go there 😄
its definitely not for everyone!! 😂❤️ if you have that inkling, you’ll probably feel the same way as me!
I've test knited 3 or 4 times now, and it always was a test, so designers were interested to hear feedback, and there was enough time to finish the test knit without any stress. But there is another part I don't like about test knitting, and I rarely apply for it. In addition to the reason you said in your video, no much possibility to adjust the pattern, you can't also put it on pause in case you lost interest in it, or you need to knit something else. You just have to finish on time, no matter what.
so true! it can be really limiting if you want to follow up on a passion project or knit a quick gift or anything, very annoying!
"I'm petty" Me too! Loved your honesty, I 100% would have unfollowed, in fact I've never applied for a test knit for many of the reasons you outlined
😂 we sound very similar! except you must be wiser than me!
😂😂😂 or more afraid of rejection!
I've been considering applying for a test knit lately, but I've had all of these thoughts in the back of my mind the whole time. Thanks for articulating it so well and giving my ego a little slap upside the head. I mean, honestly, why would I want to put myself into that kind of deadline pressure to knit who knows what?! 😅
learn from my mistakes 😂😂😂 i think some people are well suited but if you’re anything like me (and sounds like you are!) best just knit what you want to knit 💕
I’ve test knit a lot and I generally pick things where I’ll learn a new skill. I tend to pick up stuff on Ravelry and Yarnpond where it’s much less what you’re describing I know have designers I regularly test for and I love it. I always learn something, I find new yarn (tho I tend to knit from stash) and I love a deadline. The ones that annoy me are those that insist on you posting on an open insta. I can’t have one because of my job. I’ve always been gifted patterns for testing and had great designers who value feedback. I only do patterns I actually want to knit
that sounds really good 💕💕 glad you have found what works for you and are enjoying it!
I'm a crocheter...I can knit but I really need to get better at it. I have done one test for a crocheted shawl and enjoyed that. I've since applied for literally over thirty tests and have never gotten picked, so I gave up. My IG is small and even though I've been crocheting for literally decades. It's ridiculous. So I stopped even bothering to apply and have started just doing what I enjoy. :)
oh that’s so frustrating, i’m sorry you had that experience! a blessing in disguise 💕💕💕
Test knitting drama! I love it🤣
Anyway, as for my experience, I test knitted only once before, and that was a great experience for me: firstly it was a small accessory, so no fit issues, quite easy process (even though I didn't know one of the tecniques required and I actually learnt that though the test knit). It was from a new designer, but a person I've followed for a while over on instagram and yt, so I thougt I could trust. Also I should say, it was my very first time applying for a test knit and I got accepted. Amazing feeling in the moment, but that didn't last very long because over the course of this year I then applied for five additional test knits (all from designers I follow and admire) and I was rejected each and every time. You're right, that kinda sucks😅 I felt a lil silly to think it but I did feel disappointed and kinda sad nonetheless. So now before applying I try to really think if I love the garment and I'm willing to accept a potential rejection (that has nothing to do with me, it's nothing personal, it's just due to the fact that there're many people willing to test, and just not as many spots- that's my opinion at least)
so glad you had a nice testing experience and my commiserations on the rejections, i feel your pain!! definitely good to be aware of the possibility before test knitting, though doesn’t make it sting any less 😂❤️
I agree with every point in this video. Thank you for making it!
thank you!! glad i’m not the only one 😂
I'm an avid tester for crochet patterns. I don't mind that it's unpaid. Every crochet designer I've tested for gave me a free pattern as a thank you, which I know isn't "enough" for most, but I don't mind it. For me, testing makes my ADHD self get things done because of a deadline! Most things I start on my own, I don't finish. But it's not for everyone, that's for sure!
that’s so true and something that on reflection, i can see the benefit of. i do have some lovely finished items from my test knits that realistically if they were self -initiated, they would still be in my wip pile 😂
@@issyknits i do agree with a lot of your points though. Testing can be kind of a pain if you are with a designer who is only using you for marketing. And it can be a bit of a blow to the self esteem if you're not chosen.
I have not done a test knit yet - there are only 2 designers that I would consider, but can't give it the time commitment for another year. They have photos from different angles on the tester call so you know what you are making and one gives a discount code if you want to use whatever yarn they are partnering with (though not necessary to use that yarn). The mystery test knits would never work for me. I'm too picky with what I make.
those sound like ideal designers to test for and probably really enjoyable tests! definitely good to be conscious of those sort of things before applying 💕
@@issyknits I completely understand why you aren't doing these anymore. Also am glad I found your channel yesterday! Lots of love from the Pacific Northwest 🧡
I’ve done 1 test knit before and the designer listed the wrong yarn weight in the test application. I was still a relatively new knitter at the time and didn’t properly understand yarn weights, gauge needle sizes ect so I went out and bought yarn that was the weight she’d listed and it wasn’t suitable for the pattern at all (the design was a summer slip-style dress and she’d recommended fingering weight yarn for 5mm needles, the fabric was completely see through and not at all wearable, or comparable to the fabric shown in her sample) I tried everything to get the yarn to work as I was primarily test knitting to help with the cost of the hobby as I didn’t have a lot of money at the time and couldn’t afford to get another dress quantity of yarn. I ended up not finishing and she wasn’t necessarily overly nice about it. I think my biggest issue with the situation was that it really knocked my confidence with the craft because it was such a horrible experience. I still have that yarn in my stash today as I still haven’t thought of something else to use it for 🙁
oh no that sounds like a horrible experience, i’m so sorry that happened! fingering weight on 5mm is madness and can imagine it must’ve been very revealing indeed 😂😅 i’m not surprised you’ve been put off future test knits! who needs the stress especially when you are just trying to follow their instructions! ❤️🩹
I've done over 70 test knits. I only choose patterns I like and that I have the yarn for. I never buy new yarn for a test; would rather knit down my massive stash. I've had issues with unrealistic deadlines in the past (shawls or sweaters in 2 weeks? 😂). I've had to withdraw from only two tests - one due to a hand injury, and the other pattern had so many errors and revisions, I just opted out. She was releasing revisions about every 2 days, no indication of what the change was, and no consideration for how far along the testers were in the pattern! Nope.
that sounds like some really wise perimeters! i can’t imagine how frustrating that test knit must have been 😅 i’d have withdrawn too!
I sometimes like test knitting as it makes me finish the item otherwise I start many projects and don’t finish them. However I don’t test that much these days as sometimes I travel and don’t have time to do any knitting or work gets extremely busy. When I test knit I like to provide critical feedback as I feel it will help improve the pattern and make the people who buy it less frustrated knitting it. I get annoyed when other test knitters are always so positive when testing and later when I buy the pattern I find places that are not explained sufficiently or things don’t make sense.
that’s a really good point, it definitely helps for motivation to finish! i fear many of my test knits would have become abandoned wips otherwise 😅😂 definitely people can be soo over positive and then you feel like a downer for bringing up a glaringly obvious mistake that everyone else apparently just skipped over fine? 😅 it can be very frustrating!
Nah. never appealed. I am a slow knitter, so knitting to a schedule is not attractive to me. And I don't like being told what to do, or put pictures of myself online. I also don't do social media and can't be bothered to do nice pictures of my work (when I bother taking any pictures at all)
you are very wise - i wish i realised sooner! hard agree on not liking being told what to do 😅😂
I regularly test knit for a friend who is gaining profile in nz (where I live) but I do it as a friend and only if I'm going to wear the item. My friend is always so grateful for her test knitters. I did test knit once for another designer who set stage deadlines and expected weekly progress reports. And when I commented a part was confusing she didn't respond well.
that sounds an ideal scenario 💕 ahh weekly reports sounds very annoying, says it all really 😅
Thank you for being so open about your experience. I once applied to test crochet a summer top in size s. Once we got the pattern, it said we should make a gauge swatch and not block it. I feared that if I would follow the unblocked gauge, my top would become too big. The designer stuck to her opinion and I cancelled the test. What was the point of crocheting a garment that wouldn't fit me in the end? I then had to pay for the pattern - which I thought was reasonable, since theoretically, I could have used the whole drama just to receive the pattern for free... but it was my last time test crocheting and I decided never to do it again.
that sounds really frustrating and can definitely see how it’s put you off future tests!
I watched the video while working on a project for my 3rd ever test knit😅
I had a pretty good experience so far, but I also only tested socks and only for designers I already like
I can definitly see myself test knitting more, but your video was really helpful in setting myself my own boundaries for test knitting!
glad you are enjoying it, sounds like you have gone in with a good mindset! definitely all about having the right boundaries 💕
I like your take on testing because you bring up some things I've had to work through to personally love it.
I've test knit 7? times now, so I've gotten experience with what you talked about. Now I have my own rules of what I will or won't test.
I would knit the pattern anyways
I already have enough yarn
I'm confident I can make the deadline
I'm confident in the skills I need
Test takes place on Ravelry
Most importantly: there's not a scramble of other people wanting to test as well. From what I've witnessed, Instagram testers can be crazy and therefore designers need forms to make sure nobody will run off with the pattern or take indefinitely to finish.
There's been several instances where I get so close to signing up and then realize that it breaks too many of my rules. Takes a lot of impulse control 😂
that’s a really healthy approach! i think test taking place on ravelry is probably a huge one, i’ve only tested via instagram which probably explains some of my experiences 😂😂
For as long as I have the time I will keep test knitting bc my brain thinks 80 hours of knitting in six weeks is less than spending £7 on the pattern so I can knit at my own pace!
😂😅 feel that!
I've stopped applying. I had a few where the pattern was such a mess and wasn't tech edited before we got it. Some designers didn't communicate with us and went on vacation. I gave feedback regarding accessibility because they asked me to provide that feedback specifically, none of it was used. They asked to Zoom with me to talk about that feedback then never contacted me back when I messaged them regarding that meeting. I have one friend I will still test for, but I typically don't have time so I don't offer.
oh that sounds super annoying and can so understand why you’ve stopped too! it feels extra hard work when you’re not being appreciated!
Interesting takes! I used to test knit a lot, but now I’m far more selective. I’ve run into too many designers begging for men to test their “unisex” patterns that have been graded to a women’s size chart while refusing any modifications that accommodate common masculine body features, such as a deeper yoke, larger arm circumference, longer sleeves/body, etc. Just don’t ask me how many test knits I did before I started standing my ground when requested for a test or when applying for one 😂
that’s really interesting and somehow doesn’t surprise me!! 😂😅 when i’ve tried to search men’s patterns on ravelry, i see a lot of “unisex” fits that seem awfully like they are just for women! are there are good designers for men’s patterns that you would recommend?
Love love love your take on test knitting. Agree 100%. Thx for this 🧶
yay glad i’m not the only one 🙌
I’ve never been tempted. Always seems too much stress for me! Really found your info interesting ❤
definitely too much stress for me too! wish i had figured that out sooner 😂
THIS! I have never even considered doing one because of all the reasons you list here. I also do not gift knit which is a very unpopular stance. I will make stuff for my kids and husband but that's about it. The most I might do is a hat for someone.
you’re very wise! i have fallen down the giftknitting trap too many times 😂 i avoid it now too for the most part, it’s not worth it unless the recipient definitely wants the thing and understands the process (which is very rarely the case!!)
I'm currently doing my sixth test knit. The external deadline means I actually finish my project instead of casting on the next shiny project. This current one is breaking my self-imposed test knit ban which was so I could focus on other projects. I enjoy the test knit groups with people sharing pictures and questions. I've been able to substitute fibre from animals based to plant-based yarns and add ~2" to body lengths for them. I only get accepted on about half the ones that I apply to and you don't always get rejection messages. Meant when I didn't get contacted by the date specified in the application that I applied for another. Only the first one was just a week behind her schedule and I ended up doing 3 test knits at once. Only one of the test knits has been really confusing and had to be started over due to short rows being changed. I guess thats part of test knitting though. Often the small mistakes are noticed by faster knitters before me or its small stitch count errors for my size. It a love/hate relationship that's mostly love. Although I swear I'm gonna stop so I can knit one of the hundred other projects I want to knit.
wow three test knits at once is intense!! it’s really good you’ve found what works for you and enjoy it, that’s the main thing ❤️ they are lucky to have you!
What a great topic of discussion! I agree with you... ❤
yay thank you!!! 💕
Love your video, can’t wait to see more.
aw thank you so much! 💕
I love this! Petty rejection unfollow is 100% my vibe 😆
glad it’s not just me 😂❤️
So interesting, I've thought about test knitting but I don't have an online profile myself so I don't imagine I'd ever get selected. I love to knit and have created my own designs and developed my skills over years, and I could certainly give feedback on a pattern, but I wouldn't be much of an asset to somebody who wanted advertising.
i think to be fair there are lots of designers who genuinely want feedback however i suspect their tests are run privately or on ravelry so im not sure what they look like!
I burst out laughing at unfollowing post rejection because I did that, too. I guess this makes me normal... and petty. 😂
glad i’m not the only one! 😂😅
I've taken a few test for crochet that I don't like just to prove ive been a tester before 😂 for the ones I'd really like to do in the future 🤣 but now I'm kind of off it cause I've been making things I won't wear lol
that’s the problem isn’t it 😂 and once you realise you don’t like it you’ve still got to power through, very painful times 😂
You did make me laugh as I have done a few test knits and had similar experiences but the advantage of my having a few years on you is that I really don't care! The things that amuse me most are the competitiveness within the group as to who can finish first ( some people must do nothing but knit all day without pause for food or sleep) and the pile on that occurs if you tentatively suggest an alternative way of doing something. never from the designers in my experience who have been uniformly gracious even if deciding not to follow my suggestion.
i hope to be less bothered by these things one day 😂 ah you’re so right, the people who somehow are almost finished a week into the test when i’m still picking my yarn 😂😅
I've seen test knitters who comment that they changed parts of the pattern or used a different weight of yarn and I've wondered what the designer thought of that. Personally, I don't seem to get through a pattern without making modifications, so I won't be volunteering. I'm happy developing my own designs just for me.
i know me too! seems to defy the point really 🤔 i’m very similar, prefer to go my own way!!
Great summary! I've never test knitted and was on the fence on what I thought about it but this video aligns with all the issues I saw with it. This is my first video of your that I'm seeing and I'll be on the lookout for more. Just one bit of feedback, the sound on headphones seems to be coming out from only one side, perhaps try recording in stereo?
thank you so much for pointing this out! it’s a new mic and exactly as you say it seems like it’s recorded on one side only 😅 will go and troubleshoot what happened and fix for the next one. glad you enjoyed and better sound to come!! 🙌
I've patterned tested for a few designers, and thankfully, for the most part, my experience has been good ☺ However, even then, not all pattern tests are created equal! I've had groups of other testers that gave me more grief than the pattern test itself 💀
definitely true - it depends massively on the people involved! sorry you had a bad experience, hope you got a good story at least 😂
Very true. I had a test crocheter calling (!) the whole group (!) via the Instagram chat by mistake and she was in the US while I was asleep in Europe... 🙃
I’ve only applied to test knitting twice. I didn’t get picked. But in reality I don’t have the time with all my other WIPs staring back at me. I think it would have to be a pattern that I see first and must have it in my wardrobe.
definitely a blessing in disguise!! but i’m sorry to hear that, it does suck!
Love your candor ❤
thank you!! 🌟
The idea of anyone doing test-knitting has always been wild to me. I see what the designer gets out of it, but i've never understood what the knitter gets besides a bit of attention from the designer. Cultish, tbh.
you’re not wrong tbh 😂 i didn’t question it for a long time but once i got started, i was bit like “hold on a minute…” 😂
I've never applied to be a test knitter because I just know if I don't get picked I'll feel upset and if I do I'll just tell myself "oh they probably had very little people applying..." and why am I putting myself through all that just to work for free??? Besides if there are sizing mistakes and I end up with a piece that doesn't really fit and I don't wear I spent all that time and money for nothing
so true 💕💕💕 it’s a lot for a free pattern for sure!
All of the above!
Add in now people PAYING to test knit!
really!!! i didn’t even know about that 😂 some designers are wild!
@@issyknits it’s really just the worst possible evolution for test knitting. Way back when (pre rav), when I have tested I always received yarn, and another pattern of my choice from the designer. (And sometimes payment in money!)
These days it seems like testers are really being taken advantage of. This trend is really the worst.
PAYING TO TEST KNIT?? holy shit
so true and sad.
💕💕
10/10 no notes agree with all points 💅
💕😂 glad its not just me!
I have been knitting for over 40 years. Never test knit and never intend to. It is so tedious that this has become a status-y, clic y thing. People do this for the status, just to say that they have an “in” with these designers. Most of these people just like dropping names. I don’t follow anyone who brags about this endlessly. It is cringey. No thanks, I will pay the 8 bucks for the pattern and whatever the yarn costs. Easier that way.
definitely the right attitude! i’m annoyed it took me so long to figure out the same, but i’m with you now 🤣
And then you hear designers complaining about testers not following through while heavily implying they are scammers who stole a pattern rather than busy humans who have unpredictable lives and a hefty dose of shame over their failures.
Interesting video. I completely agree. I never understood the appeal of test knitting. Why would I want to spend my precious knitting time on a pattern that could have mistakes? And it is unpaid, with a deadline and I need to use/buy my own yarn? No thanks. I rather pay the money to buy the final pattern.
so true! i think the longer i knit the more i understand i can only realistically complete a handful of big projects every year, so they need to be ones i really want to do!
I love your perspective!! I'm going to DM you because I have an idea! xoxo
love it 💕💕💕
random: what kind of mic do you have?
it’s the hollyland lark m1 - my first time using it! annoyingly i’ve messed up the sound somehow so it’s coming out single sided, so need to look into that 😂
Am I the only one not able to hear the audio. I can read the caption & hear the music, but when she’s speaking in the mic 🎤 it’s just static 😢 SAD
thanks for mentioning this, someone else noted the same and it’s a new mic and is only recording to one side 😅 if you listen again with the other side of your headphones you should be able to hear it. will fix it on the next one!
It's the same for me on a tv. It has stereo settings which I can't turn off. For the next time, even if it records in mono, you can duplicate the audio track to have it stereo 😊 @@issyknits
@@jennis.strickpodcast oh amazing thank you! will try that 🙌