Pattern Testing for BBD
Hi! If you know a little about me, you know I'm a milspouse and a mom, which means my schedule can get a bit busy and unpredictable at times. That said, I aim to publish 4-6 patterns a year, and am currently looking for more pattern testers to help ensure patterns are well written and easy to follow. Please read the "fine print" below, and then submit your information via the form provided if you think this could be a good fit.
I appreciate your interest!
I appreciate your interest!
OVERVIEW
I create patterns in sizes ranging from MiniQuilt to Queen that are generally aimed at an Advanced Beginner or Intermediate skill level, though I encourage quilters of all skill levels to pattern test as it gives a better reflection of how well the pattern is written. My goal is to publish 4-6 patterns per year, and I aim for the design and testing process to take roughly 3 months from start to finish. When I'm ready to test a pattern, I will put out a call via email with a photo of the design and general information about the pattern, as well as pertinent deadlines. I will then choose testers from the pool who respond that they're interested in testing that design. If I don't choose you, please don't worry - it may be that four people all wanted to test the same size or someone else can offer a faster turn around time. There will be more opportunities : )
FROM ME
~ I will request testers when I feel the pattern is "ready." You won't receive the glossy cover photo just yet, but you will receive my best draft before the final edits I make based on your feedback.
~ I will be clear in my communication, specific about details and deadlines, and available to respond to your questions in a timely manner. I encourage you to join the private Facebook group for pattern testers.
~ I will provide you with fabric (if I'm looking for a specific colorway to highlight) OR a gift certificate to an online retailer toward fabric of your choice for the test project's "flimsy" (the runner/pillow/quilt top). The finished project is yours to enjoy.
~ I will send you a copy of the final pattern at release for your personal use if you complete your test version by the specified deadline and provide a quality image of the test project.
~ I will link to you when highlighting your version of the project, i.e. connecting to your blog, Instagram, etc.
~ I will be clear in my communication, specific about details and deadlines, and available to respond to your questions in a timely manner. I encourage you to join the private Facebook group for pattern testers.
~ I will provide you with fabric (if I'm looking for a specific colorway to highlight) OR a gift certificate to an online retailer toward fabric of your choice for the test project's "flimsy" (the runner/pillow/quilt top). The finished project is yours to enjoy.
~ I will send you a copy of the final pattern at release for your personal use if you complete your test version by the specified deadline and provide a quality image of the test project.
~ I will link to you when highlighting your version of the project, i.e. connecting to your blog, Instagram, etc.
FROM YOU
~ You will commit to the deadline specified at the start of the test project. (But don't worry - I know all too well that sometimes life gets crazy and emergencies pop up. If you volunteer and then realize you cannot make the commitment, I ask that you please let me know as early as possible. You can test again another time when things settle down : )
~ You will offer specific feedback, suggestions, and questions about the pattern as you work, i.e. pointing out spelling/grammar/math errors, asking for clarification of text or diagrams, suggesting better wording, etc.
~ You will follow the pattern as written. If you find something that could be explained better or completed more easily, by all means let me know so I can write the best possible set of directions. But I request that you make the pattern as designed and not implement changes you might desire so I can present examples to those purchasing the pattern that reflect the original design.
~ You will provide me a clear, well lit image of the completed test project that may be used online or in the finished pattern to show others an alternate version.
~ You will not publish images of your test project in progress or completed until the pattern is released. (I know it's hard not to "sneak peek" what you're up to, but it's important. You're welcome to say you're pattern testing or post a snap of your fabric pull before you get underway, though!) I will notify testers of the pattern in advance of the pattern release date, and I encourage you to capitalize on the social media push for yourself by sharing your finished project on your own social media channels with a link to where to buy the pattern.
~ You will offer specific feedback, suggestions, and questions about the pattern as you work, i.e. pointing out spelling/grammar/math errors, asking for clarification of text or diagrams, suggesting better wording, etc.
~ You will follow the pattern as written. If you find something that could be explained better or completed more easily, by all means let me know so I can write the best possible set of directions. But I request that you make the pattern as designed and not implement changes you might desire so I can present examples to those purchasing the pattern that reflect the original design.
~ You will provide me a clear, well lit image of the completed test project that may be used online or in the finished pattern to show others an alternate version.
~ You will not publish images of your test project in progress or completed until the pattern is released. (I know it's hard not to "sneak peek" what you're up to, but it's important. You're welcome to say you're pattern testing or post a snap of your fabric pull before you get underway, though!) I will notify testers of the pattern in advance of the pattern release date, and I encourage you to capitalize on the social media push for yourself by sharing your finished project on your own social media channels with a link to where to buy the pattern.
SOUND GOOD?
If that all sounds fine and dandy, then please complete this form to submit your pattern testing application. And thank you! Your work "behind the scenes" helps make the difference between a happy quilter and one who might get bogged down by an inaccurate diagram. And we all know we're aiming for happy quilters!
I look forward to having you on board as a BBD pattern tester. If you have any further questions, you can reach me via email at berrybarndesigns{@}gmail.com |
|