Saturday, March 29, 2008

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.

10 comments:

Minttusuklaa H said...

Hi,
That list would be nice! Could you add my name to it? Thanks for GREAT blog.
Mintsu

minttusuklaa_1@luukku.com

Anonymous said...

Hey! Where have I been? If there's room I'd love to have my name added to that list. I love any excuse to knit your critters. :-)

Anonymous said...

I hope you manage to programme in some 'me' space for yourself. A very, very busy friend of mine had a code for her 'me' space and actually put it on her schedule!Keep up the good work, we all appreciate it.

sharon said...

as a single mom of 2 gurls I know what you feel. all I can say is that you have to make time for yourself and if they really want it - they can get it when you come back.
Your toys are adorable, and if I didn't have too much on the go, i might be one of the people bugging you...

Lucy said...

I'm with Sharon on this!! Don't let anyone grind you down - I'm always flat out trying to keep up with everything - you must give yourself some "you" time. It looks as though you are getting several volunteers anyway so I'll opt out of this one but send you all the best of wishes and lots of cyberhugs from Downunder!! Keep Smiling and Happy Knitting!

Anonymous said...

take one day a week..where you dont even turn on the computer...it wont kill everyone to have to wait 24hrs to get their pattern. hell..if you let everyone know you dont send over weekends then you can have 2 days off..people cant expect you to be on the ball every hour of the day.

Katt

Catie said...

It is tough being your own boss, there is always something you could/should be doing. I'm right there with you as I'm in graduate school and have a thesis deadline looming at the end of summer. I hope that we both find time for ourselves in the near future. Take care,

Catie

Anonymous said...

If its not too late I would love to be added to the list for test knitters. I have lots of free time on my hands. Would love if you keep me in mind.

Unknown said...

You hang in there! It can be very stressful to run your own business and definite ME time is necessary. We have yet to take a vacation where we aren't either on a cell phone or the internet, so I understand. Please take time for YOU! It's for your own good. :)

pink-petal-designs said...

I might be too late now, but i would love to be added to your list.
Sarah x