Why have your pattern tech edited?

A well-written knitting or crochet pattern is a joy to use. You want your instructions to be understood by beginners as well as seasoned crafters, and you want them to come back to your patterns again and again.

When you're writing a pattern, it's very tricky to put yourself in the maker's shoes. It's easy to miss potential ambiguities or confusing instructions. I know from experience that having fresh eyes check your pattern is an absolute must. I never tech edit my own patterns!

I have over a decade of experience as a knitter and crocheter. As in-house tech editor for The Knitter and Simply Knitting magazines I have worked on hundreds of patterns. I also work with a number of independent designers, helping them to prepare their patterns for publication.

My standard tech editing service includes:

Proofreading the text of your pattern to make sure:

  • spelling and grammar are spot on

  • your terminology is clear and consistent

  • instructions are not confusing or ambiguous

  • formatting is consistent and logical

A line by line check of the pattern to make sure:

  • stitch counts are accurate

  • size grading is correct

  • gauge calculations match garment measurements

A full check of terminology to make sure:

  • glossary is complete and consistently used

  • needle/hook and yarn information is clear and consistent

I can also make your pattern-writing life easier in other ways:

Grading across multiple sizes

I can grade your garment from infant up to 6X sizes using measurements you provide or standard industry measurements.

Creating schematics

Schematics that include the measurements of your garment look professional and help give visual clues to makers.

Creating charts

I can create charts from written instructions and vice versa. I use Stitchmastery and Adobe Illustrator and can provide charts in various formats (.ai, .knt, .pdf, .svg, .png, etc.).

Pattern layout

If you're not sure how to lay out your pattern, I can help you create a PDF document that incorporates your branding and is easy for people to use.

“Working with Rachael was a pleasure. She was not only quick and precise, but generous in her feedback and undaunted by my 16-size pattern.”

Katie Green of Katie Green Bean