Pattern Testing
There are plenty of opportunities to become a pattern tester throughout the year! Below is some information about how to become a tester, the expectations I have for my testers, and what you can expect from me as a designer!
How to become a tester:
I do not have a group of testers that I always choose from. Whenever a new design/pattern becomes available, I will create an application that must be filled out by the applicant. It will remain open for about 1 week. The application will always be posted on Instagram and occasionally Facebook and TikTok. You can also sign up for my email list (located on the home page) for direct email notifications about testing availabilities! The applications will also be linked in the "In process" page of my website!
What I look for when choosing testers:
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Size: The first and most important thing that I look for when choosing testers is SIZE! I will always choose the testers with the largest or smallest measurement as well as the largest or smallest body proportions (i.e. largest/smallest chest-to-waist ratio). I will then attempt to choose 2-3 people per size. The fewer people who apply in a size, the greater the chance of being chosen.
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Photos:
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Worn Garments on "People": One of the first things I look for when looking at photos is if there are any pictures of WORN wearables (clothing such as shirts, skirts, pants, sweaters, etc.) on a real body (not a dress form or mannequin). I likely won't choose testers who have never made a garment or who don't have pictures of themselves wearing any.
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One of my requirements is a "worn" photo on a real body (without face is fine). When people look at a pattern, they want to know what the garment would look like on a body that looks like theirs! I choose testers with different body shapes and sizes to showcase the pattern's versatility and to help potential customers visualize what the garment would look like on their bodies.​​
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Quality: I look for photos that are taken in good lighting with a clean-looking background. I typically gravitate towards people who take photos outdoors or against a wall. I usually won't choose testers who have photos with clothes all over the floor, dark/grainy photos, dirty mirror pictures, or bathroom photos where the toilet and bathtub can be seen.
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Experience: I do not require testers to have experience testing; however, I often look for people who have experience making wearables (as explained above). It doesn't have to be the same kind of wearable. I just want to make sure that you are comfortable making clothing.
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Professionalism and attitude: I believe in life, we all experience positives and negatives. I believe that people can learn and grow from their mistakes. I will not choose people who are known for shaming or bashing other creators/designers/testers online! I will NOT tolerate online bullying either.
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I do NOT require a craft-related Instagram account; however, I typically prefer testers who do. In the past, I have experienced a higher rate of testers "ghosting" when they don't have a craft-related Instagram account. I find that most people who have one will be more active and communicative if something goes wrong or they need more time. Communication is what I value the most when choosing testers. If a tester ghosts or cannot properly communicate their needs with me (unless due to an emergency beyond their control), they will not be chosen again.
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Post Engagement/Previous Applicants: This is NOT a requirement; however, when I see a specific username commenting on my posts or someone who keeps reapplying for tests when not chosen the first time, I will "usually" remember them and choose them at some point in the future. I strive to work with as many people as possible and I love meeting new people and making genuine connections! If you aren't chosen the first time, please don't be disheartened! Please keep applying!
What I expect from my testers:
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First and foremost is communication! I am a genuinely understanding person and I completely understand if something comes up. I am more than happy to provide an extension as long as the tester communicates that they need one. I often send messages throughout the testing process checking in to see how things are coming along and if people need more time. If I don't hear from anyone saying that they need more time, I will assume that everything is fine and I will receive photos and feedback on the day the test is due. When people ask for more time, I ask them how much time they will need and we work things out from there!