Behind the Scenes
Refuge Quilt
Pattern Testers
Meet my Refuge Quilt pattern testers!
I had an amazing response to my pattern tester call back in January. Here are the incredible individuals who volunteered for the task at hand:
Aren't they all amazing and talented quilters?! I can't even pick a favorite quilt top because they are all so beautiful! I was just blown away with the creativity and talent of these women. I am incredibly grateful to each of them for the time, energy and fabric that they poured into testing my first quilt pattern. Please go find them on Instagram and give them a few hearts!
Mary Turney @merrymadeit
Amber Kaehr @hobby_farmquilts
Michelle Kaestner @libellenart
Rayetta Sanchez @rayettaquiltbee
Jana Anderson @janamariequilts
Amanda Morgenstern @creatingeverydaywithamanda
Rebekah Moffatt @smithcountryquilts
Marie-Claude St-Germain @chasing_quilts
Maureen Hindle @craftycatquilts
Kimberly Elliott @kimpossiblequilting
Lu Peterson @she_who_quilts
Nicole Campiglia-Roberts @stitches_with_sphinxes
Samantha Current @the_quilted_gnome
Gayle Howes @gaylehowes
Tamara Oster @t.time.with.tam
Pattern testers play a crucial role in the world of sewing. They are individuals who volunteer or are hired to test patterns created by designers or companies before they are released to the public. Pattern testing ensures that the patterns are accurate, easy to follow, and free of errors. Here's an introduction to pattern testers:
1. Purpose: Pattern testers are a key part of the quality control process for crafting patterns. They help identify any issues within the pattern, ensuring that the final product is of high quality and user-friendly.
2. Responsibilities: Pattern testers follow the provided instructions and use the pattern to create the intended item, in this case, a quilt. They meticulously record their experiences, take notes on any difficulties encountered, and provide feedback on the clarity of the instructions.
3. Feedback: Pattern testers offer constructive feedback to the pattern designer or company. This feedback may include suggestions for improving the pattern's instructions, clarifying any confusing sections, identifying potential errors, and providing recommendations for fabric choices. They also provide photographs of their completed projects.
4. Communication: Pattern testers maintain open communication with the pattern designer or company. They may participate in group discussions or forums where they can ask questions, share their progress, and seek clarification on any aspects of the pattern.
5. Skill Level: Pattern testers come from a range of skill levels, from beginners to experienced crafters. This diversity allows designers to assess how well their patterns cater to a broad audience.
6. Compensation: Some pattern testers are volunteers who do it for the love of crafting and the opportunity to contribute to the crafting community. Others may receive compensation, such as a free copy of the pattern or a small payment for their time and feedback.
7. Testing Period: Pattern testing usually occurs over a specified period, during which testers are expected to complete the project and provide feedback within a set timeframe. This helps ensure that patterns are thoroughly evaluated before release.
8. Benefits: Pattern testers not only help improve the quality of patterns but also gain valuable experience and access to new patterns before they are publicly available. This can be a great way for crafters to expand their skills and build a sense of community within the crafting world.
In summary, pattern testers are essential to the crafting industry, as they help guarantee the accuracy and usability of patterns. Their feedback and input contribute to the overall success and satisfaction of crafters who use these patterns to create their own handmade items.
