Call for Test Knitters

Hello! It’s been three years since I published my last knitting pattern (hmm, I wonder why that is?) so I couldn’t be more excited to share that I once again have a couple of sock patterns ready to release out into the world. Before that can happen though, I’d love them to be tested by some real life knitters! Interested? Read on for details!

The Socks

First up, a to-be-named pair of mid-calf socks that feature a delicate twisted rib and some fun stitch manipulation that results in a summer meadow blooming above your ankles. These socks are knit from the toe up with a short row heel and feature some fun details and tricks … including a method to minimize the purling you do (so if purling isn’t your bag, don’t be too put off but those acres of reverse stockinette). I used Rosa Pomar’s Mondim for this pair, a plump non superwash, no nylon sock yarn, but the pattern should work well in a variety of 4ply/fingering weights and even sport weight sock yarn … while a semi-solid, slightly speckled or totally solid is nice for showing off the pattern, using an ombre or self-striping sock yarn with wide stripes could also lead to interesting results!

Next, some breezy shortie socks with stripes and simple colorwork, the Ginnel Socks! These shorties are knit from the cuff down and feature clever short rows to keep your cuff from slipping under your heel (so annoying!) and also use a short row heel AND toe for extra short row fun! This sample is knit in Coop Knits Socks Yeah! 4ply in three colors. It’s a great scrap busting project as many sizes will take less than 50 grams of the main color and not much at all for the contrasts. You could also do a two color version, or pair of solid with a self striping or variegated yarn for a fun look! I will release a completely plain version of these socks alongside the patterned version, so if you love the idea of a shortie sock but can’t bear the thought of colorwork and are desperate to test, let me know!

The Test

I’m looking to have each pair tested across the size range. While both patterns are clear and straightforward (I hope), they are probably not suited for absolute beginner sock knitters. But if you’ve knit at least a pair or two of socks and are interested in testing, I’d love to hear from you. I’ll be running the test via email, so no need to sign up or use any specific platform to take part.

Deadlines For those test knitting the mid-calf floral socks, I’m asking test knitters to complete at least one soc and provide feedback by 20th June 2022. For the shortie Ginnel Socks, I’m asking testers to complete a pair of the socks and provide feedback by 1st July 2022. I’d also love if you were willing to share completed photos of your socks on social media (and/or allow me to), but only with your permission!

What You’ll Get In addition to having advanced access to the pattern, a copy of the final version and my eternal gratitude, as a small token of appreciation for completing the test, I’ll gift you your choice of one of my (admittedly limited!) published sock patterns or a sock pattern of your choice from another indie designer.

How To Apply If you are interested in testing one of the patterns or have questions, email me at fiberandsustenance@gmail.com and let me know 1) which pattern you’d like to test 2) your foot circumference (or the foot circumference you’ll be knitting for) 3) sock and/or test knitting experience and 4) if you have a place you share your knitted work (Ravelry, Instagram, etc.) I’d love to see it! — but using those is not required for the test! I’ll be back in touch by Friday, 20th May!

And if testing isn’t your bag but you like the look of either of these socks, both patterns will be released this summer … I’ll post about them here when they’re available!

Thanks as always for popping by, and happy knitting!