The secret life of test knitting: It's not just about errors!
Hello, fellow knitters!
It's been a busy but exciting week for me as I've been working with a talented group of knitters on the test knit for the Zephyr sweater! Test knitting is truly the heart of my design process. It allows me to knit alongside a team of passionate enthusiasts, all contributing to refine the design and pattern for future knitters.
But have you ever wondered what motivates knitters to participate in test knits? After all, it's usually unpaid, and rarely comes with sponsored yarn.
Having run many test knits myself, I've uncovered some of the many reasons:
Deadlines as Motivators: For some, the test knit's deadline provides the push they need to finish a project. It's a fantastic way to stay on track!
Support and Guidance: Especially for newer knitters, test knits offer invaluable support and guidance. Imagine having a team and the designer by your side, ready to answer questions and tackle new techniques (without relying solely on video tutorials!).
The Joy of Giving Back: Many test knitters find immense satisfaction in assisting the designer. They take pride in helping bring a new design to life.
Community Craving: Let's face it, knitting can sometimes feel solitary. Unlike chess players who meet for a friendly game, we rarely have dedicated spaces to connect with fellow knitters over coffee. Imagine a daily chat filled with project updates, photos, brainstorming sessions, and questions – a virtual haven for knitters! Collaboration and inspiration flourish in this environment. In fact, I often encourage my test knitters to modify the design – their fresh perspectives lead to improvements I wouldn't have considered otherwise!
Intrigued by the idea of test knitting? Here's your starter guide:
🔎 Finding Test Knits:
Ravelry Testing Pool: This is my go-to platform for finding test knitters. New projects pop up daily! Check open test calls here (If you're interested in joining my test knitters group you're warmly welcome!)
Yarnpond: This website specifically connects designers with test knitters, sample knitters, and editors. Find your next test knit project here.
Instagram: Follow hashtags like #testknit #testknitting #testknittersneeded #testknitterswanted #testknittingcall to discover open test calls.
Designer's website. Search for your favorite designers online, and visit their websites. Often, you'll find a "Test Knits" section or announcements within their blog.
How do test knits typically proceed?
Express Your Interest by leaving a comment or filling out an application form. The designer reviews applications, looking for enthusiastic knitters with the right skill level. If you're a good fit, you'll be thrilled to receive a welcome email letting you know you've been selected!
Knitting with a Community: As you knit, you're not alone! Share your progress, questions, and any "aha!" moments with the designer and fellow test knitters. Your insights and suggestions can help refine the pattern for everyone who knits it next!
Keeping it Updated: The designer may release updates to the pattern as they receive feedback from the test knitters. Be sure to check for these updates regularly to ensure you're knitting with the most current instructions.
Finish & Provide Feedback: After completing your stunning creation, you'll take a picture (your moment of pride!) and fill out a feedback form, providing insights on fit, wearability, and any areas you think could be improved.
Skill Level: Don't be intimidated by experience! Many designers (myself included) create beginner-friendly patterns.
Yarn Investment: Test knits typically require you to purchase your own yarn. While designers can't always offer materials, the learning and community aspects make it absolutely worthwhile!
Tip: Having a Ravelry project page showcasing your work is highly recommended. Since designers receive many applications, your project page allows them to assess if you'd be a good fit for their test knit.
📔 This Week's Esenotes Spotlight: The Classic Tee by Darling Jadore (and a perfect yarn match!) a paid pattern that's an excellent investment because of the included video tutorials.
Why You'll Love It:
Minimalist style: This top offers a relaxed, oversized fit with a touch of boxy charm, making it a perfect addition to your casual wardrobe. (P.S. I'm really fond of the brown color in the pattern!)
Beginner-friendly: This one is designed with beginners in mind. Designer marked it as intermediate level, but the pattern includes video tutorials for all the techniques you'll need, making it easy to learn new skills like German Short Rows (used to create a flattering neckline).
Top-Down Construction: No more fiddly seams at the end! This tee is knit from the neck down for a seamless finish.
Size Inclusive: Find your perfect fit with sizes ranging from XS to 5XL.
🧶 The perfect yarn pairing: Drops Belle
The Classic Tee pattern calls for DK weight yarn, and I wanted to highlight a fantastic option for your upcoming summer knits: Drops Belle! This plant-based yarn blend (53% Cotton, 33% Viscose, 14% Linen) boasts a beautiful rustic texture and breathability, making it ideal for warmer weather garments. It is also easy on the wallet, making it a great choice for budget-conscious knitters. And has a wide color range.
The Classic Tee by Darling Jadore is a delightful project for adventurous beginners, and Drops Belle is a fantastic yarn choice for a comfortable and stylish summer top. With its clear instructions, video tutorials, and size inclusivity, the pattern is a great way to add a new skill to your knitting repertoire. Plus, Drops Belle's affordability and breathability make it a perfect summer yarn.
🎥 Thinking beyond cotton for summer knits? Broaden your horizons with plant-based fibers!
Summer calls for breathable, comfy clothes, and cotton isn't your only plant-powered option! This week's video pick is “Let's Talk Plant Fibers: Linen, Cotton, Bamboo, Rayon Yarn for Summer Knitting and Crochet” by Mel Makes Stuff.
Mel dives deep into the world of plant-based yarns, exploring the unique properties of linen, bamboo, rayon, and of course, cotton. Plus, she shares tons of tips to help you master these natural fibers, like swatching to predict drape, using wooden needles for comfort, and choosing patterns with positive ease for a flattering fit. This info-packed video will be your guide to picking the perfect plant-based yarn for your next lightweight summer project!
❤️ I hope this Esenote has inspired you to give test knitting a try! It's a truly valuable experience, even for beginners. Wishing you all happy knitting and a week brimming with creative joy! Until next Tuesday!
Warm regards,
Julia Piro
Knitwear Designer & Esenotes Curator
P.S. Looking for even more inspiration? Follow me on Instagram or Facebook!
