Pattern Testing
Thank you for your interest in testing upcoming Alps & Ocean Quilt Patterns.
What is pattern testing?
Pattern testing is an important part of the quilt pattern development process. Testers receive an advance copy of a quilt pattern and are asked to make a quilt top and provide feedback.
What’s my pattern testing process?
When you apply for pattern testing, you’ll be added to my general tester pool.
When I have a pattern ready for testing, I will contact several people from the tester pool and invite them to test. I’ll provide general details — including a quilt mock-up, dates, and deadlines— so they can decide if they want to join the test.
Testers will receive the pattern and additional details via email. Pattern tests typically run 4-6 weeks, and testers will send in their feedback and photos of their quilt top at the end of the test.
What’s expected from a tester?
Complete the pattern test by deadline. Testers are expected to provide their feedback and share quilt top photos by the test due date. This is the most important thing that I ask of my pattern testers. If life comes up (and we all know that can happen) and you’re not able to complete the test in time for any reason, I ask that you let me know via email or IG message as soon as possible.
Make the quilt top. Testers are asked to make a quilt top— it’s not necessary to baste, quilt or bind your quilt for a pattern test. You may also use any fabric you’d like, including scrappy fabrics or upcycled clothing or sheets. It’s completely up to you!
Provide pattern feedback. I ask testers to email me their feedback when they’re done with a test. I always appreciate feedback in these areas: cutting instructions, construction, pattern text, diagrams, pattern layout.
Quilt Top Photos. Testers are asked to provide one or more photos of their finished quilt top. Photos should be clear and well-lit, though they don’t need to be professional. These images may be used (with credit!) on Instagram, my blog, and on the pattern listing page in my shop.
(Optional) Pattern Promotion. Testers are never expected to promote a pattern. However, if you do want to help spread the word about the pattern you’re testing, a social media shoutout, or telling your quilty friends about the pattern is always appreciated!
Note: You must have a public Instagram page to apply for pattern testing.
What can you expect from me as a designer?
A well-edited quilt pattern. My patterns have been tech edited and tested by myself before being handed over to testers.
Clear and timely communication. I do my best to be up front with my pattern testers and give them all the info they need to get started. I’ll be sure to send out prompt updates and notifications (via both email and IG chat) if there are major corrections to the pattern.
A free finalized copy of the pattern.
IG group chat. This is a fun way to build community with your fellow testers. You can share fabric pulls, get quilting tips, or even share feedback as you go. I’ve met a lot of my own quilty friends through pattern test group chats— so this one of my favorite parts of testing!
Do you pay pattern testers?
No, pattern testing is a volunteer position at this time. However, I can offer to trade testing with other designers as well as proofreading and pattern editing.