test knitters

Thanks so much to everyone who volunteered to test my patterns. I didn't expect quite so many! My plan is to put all your names on a list, and each time I need a new pattern tested, I will pick 3 people from the list. I will contact those people to find out if they have time to help me. I can't afford to pay you for the help, but you will get a free copy of the completed pattern. I'll let you know what kind of yarn I used, although you will be free to use what you like. Basically what I need for you to do is knit up the pattern, and report to me any mistakes, confusing bits, or places where more instruction is needed. I'm not sure yet what sort of deadline I will set, it will probably depend on when I get the draft ready, and when I would like the pattern to come out. I will try to give you at least 2 weeks. Is there anything I forgot?

All that said, I don't expect to have a new toy pattern ready to test for a couple of months. There's a lot of stuff going on right now that I need to concentrate on, and unfortunately, new patterns aren't my top priority. There will be a new clothing pattern for April, but there isn't time left for testing that one.

This whole week has been a little crazy and overwhelming, to the point of having a mini break-down and crying while trying to wash the dishes one night. I love what I do, but it isn't always easy to be happy when I'm being pulled in a dozen different directions. Running your own business doesn't really leave you any time to yourself, even though I try to take breaks a few evenings a week. But I don't even get holidays to myself -- I had people bugging me on my honeymoon! While I can't take a bit of time off right now, hopefully I can figure out a way to manage things better so they don't drive me so crazy. Reading all your lovely and supportive comments always cheers me up, too.