Feedback thread for (free) patterns

It’s come up in several threads now that sellers would like more feedback on the (free) patterns.
So I figured I’d just start a thread. Here we can collect feedback and stuff.

So, these are just my thoughts on the patterns—they don’t apply to all users, of course.

What I find really practical is when there’s an overview at the beginning of the pattern listing the materials used or needed—especially if the pattern is aimed at beginners—with plenty of details. It should also include things like a darning needle and pins, etc. People who don’t know much about crafts and are just starting out with crochet—since you don’t need a lot of equipment for it—don’t necessarily have a darning needle lying around at home to weave in the ends. If needed, you could also mention that, if necessary, you can weave in the ends with the crochet hook or something like that.

So, my general advice would be to err on the side of being too detailed rather than too brief in the patterns. It’s better to explain an intermediate step again and maybe not assume too much prior knowledge.
Or, alternatively, just mention right away that the patterns aren’t really suitable for total beginners.
My hope is that the patterns include as many practical tips as possible. As an experienced craftsperson, you have a whole lot of practical know-how that a beginner doesn’t have. So don’t just write: “Now do this and that, and then another 22 stitches,” but also add, “It’ll be easier if you…,” or “to avoid the common problem XY, which, based on experience, keeps cropping up at this point, you can do…”

—as for the structure, etc., you could also take cues from the layout of craft books that include patterns.
I imagine it would help when writing instructions to occasionally flip through a craft book with patterns, just to see how they’re laid out and then learn from that. Of course, you’d pick a book that sells well, not the latest slow-seller. That goes without saying.


Surely each of you has taught a craft technique or something similar to children, friends, acquaintances, or other interested people at some point?
The problems that arise in the process are valuable experiences that you can incorporate into your work.

Well, and the pictures really should be clear and informative—a light or white background, good lighting, showing the steps clearly, or editing the photos if necessary, and maybe placing a “comparison object” next to it every now and then to show the scale. A coin, a ruler, etc.
You should also choose the colors of the yarn so that they stand out against the background and the stitches are still recognizable.


So, those are the aspects that come to mind right now. Maybe I’ll think of something else later, and perhaps others would like to add their thoughts as well.
I’d love that.

Hi muetzekatze,
all free patterns are good as long as they’re of reasonable quality. Just the fact that you took the time to make them counts.
Best regards, flyowl.

@Muetzekatze
Anyone who creates a thread like this has to expect that the feedback may not turn out the way they would prefer to read it.
I did very much notice that the sellers would like feedback and reviews. Preferably good ones, of course, and as many stars as possible.

So far I’ve been going by the motto, “If you can’t say anything nice, better not say anything at all.”
If I can already see in the preview image of a pattern that the edges are uneven, that there are holes in the pattern that don’t belong there but are due to unevenly worked stitches - then that pattern is not worth another look to me.
That could be a prejudice of mine, but I assume that someone who is sloppy in making the item may also not do an ideal job with the rest of the pattern design.

Giving proper feedback is very hard. The line between motivating feedback and destructive criticism is very narrow.

I’m curious to see how this thread develops, but I don’t want to add any more on this at this point in time.

well, as I understood it, the sellers generally want more feedback, on paid patterns as well as free ones. With this thread, I actually meant all patterns.

I'm not exactly sure how to handle feedback vs. suggestions for improvement either
we'll just have to wait and see how this develops here.

“Marlene” infinity scarf for adults & children (freebook) - sewing pattern | free
My favorite free pattern is this one.
KreativlaborBerlin really put a lot of effort into it.
Text, pictures, a description, and an online version are all included - and all in one free pattern = unbeatable.
It’s a shame their patterns are discussed so little on the forum.
https://www.crazypatterns.net/de/store/KreativlaborBerlin