A Crocheter’s Guide to Pattern Testing

Whether you’ve never tested a crochet pattern before or you’ve already done a few and want to sharpen your skills, this guide is here to help. Pattern testing is a fun, rewarding way to be part of the crochet design process—and it’s more than just making something pretty. You’re helping a designer create the best version of their pattern, catching errors, and making sure instructions are clear for future makers.

I’ve created the detailed Pattern Tester’s Guide eBook that I send to my own testers, packed with tips and advice. If you’d like a copy, you can get it here:

What Is Crochet Pattern Testing?

Pattern testing is when a designer sends out a draft version of their crochet pattern for people to make before it’s officially published. The tester follows the pattern exactly, then provides feedback on things like:

• Whether the instructions are clear and easy to follow

• If there are any mistakes or typos

• Whether the finished size matches the pattern

• Yarn usage and hook size feedback

• Overall thoughts and suggestions

Why Designers Need Pattern Testers

Even the most careful designer can miss small errors or unclear instructions. A fresh pair of eyes—and hooks—helps make sure the final pattern is polished and ready for release. Testers help identify:

• Missing stitch counts or repeats

• Confusing or unclear instructions

• Formatting issues

• Inaccurate yarn amounts

• Any unexpected problems in the design

Who Can Be a Pattern Tester?

You don’t need to be an expert crocheter to test patterns. In fact, designers often like having testers of all skill levels to make sure the pattern works for beginners and experienced crocheters.

You might be a good tester if you:

• Can follow instructions carefully

• Are happy to provide honest and constructive feedback

• Can complete the project in the agreed time frame

• Enjoy trying new stitches or designs

Swatch and Gauge Matters

Before starting a test, it’s worth making a gauge swatch. This helps ensure your tension matches the pattern’s requirements, which is especially important for garments and fitted items. It’s a quick step that can prevent size or fit issues later on.

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What You’ll Need to Get Started

• Basic crochet tools: hooks, yarn, scissors, stitch markers, etc.

• A way to take photos: most designers will want progress and finished project pictures

• A method for giving feedback: email, a Google form, or group chat (designers will tell you what they prefer)

• The agreed yarn weight and hook size: or whatever the pattern calls for

Following the Pattern Exactly

When you’re testing, it’s important to follow the pattern exactly as written—no adding extra rows, changing stitches, or altering the design (unless the pattern allows for this). If you change things, the feedback won’t be accurate and the designer won’t know if the original instructions work. Save any modifications for when you make it again after testing.

Keeping Notes and Asking Questions

As you work, jot down any points where you felt unsure or paused to double-check. This makes it easier to give detailed feedback later. Don’t be afraid to ask the designer questions—if something isn’t clear to you, it might not be clear to others either.

Giving Feedback That Helps

Designers love feedback that is clear, specific, and constructive. Instead of just saying, “This part was confusing,” try saying, “In Round 5, I wasn’t sure if I should skip the first stitch after the chain.”

Include things like:

• Where you got stuck or confused

• Any typos or stitch count errors

• If the size, yarn usage, or drape seemed off

• Any steps that could be worded more clearly

Photo Quality Makes a Difference

Clear, well-lit photos are a big help to designers. They make it easier to spot potential issues with stitch placement, shaping, or drape. Natural light and a simple background usually work best.

Meeting Deadlines and Staying in Touch

Designers often have set timelines for pattern releases, so it’s important to complete your project and feedback by the agreed date. If something comes up and you can’t finish, let the designer know as soon as possible—they’ll appreciate the honesty.

Respecting Pattern Confidentiality

A test pattern is not yet public. Avoid sharing the pattern or even sneak peeks without the designer’s permission. Many designers will say when and how they’d like testers to share photos.

Reading and Following the Tester Requirements

Every designer runs their tests a little differently. Some may require specific yarn brands, social media sharing, or Ravelry project pages. Others may ask you to complete a feedback form or give permission for your photos to be used. Always read the tester call carefully before agreeing.

The Benefits of Pattern Testing

Pattern testing can be incredibly rewarding:

• You get to try out new patterns before they’re released

• You can learn new stitches and techniques

• You build a closer relationship with designers

• You get to be part of the creative process

• Often, you’ll get a free copy of the final pattern

How I Run My Pattern Tests

I test all of my crochet patterns through my Ravelry group, where I post calls for testers and manage feedback. If you’d like to be part of future tests, you can join my group here.

Want to Learn More?

If you’d like the same detailed advice, tips, and step-by-step instructions I give to my own pattern testers, grab a copy of my Pattern Tester’s Guide eBook here:

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Pattern testing is such a valuable part of the crochet design world. Whether you’re completely new or already testing regularly, the more you practise, the better you’ll get—and the more designers will want to work with you again and again.

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