Tech Editing

I am currently accepting new clients for technical editing of patterns!

I work with both knit and crochet patterns. All sizes of jobs are welcome – from an individual pattern up to a book or collection.

What does tech editing cover?

The basics include:

  • Checking spelling, grammar, flow.
  • Basic math calculations.
  • Comparing terms to a style sheet, if you use one.
  • Helping establish a style sheet if you don’t!
  • Matching charts to written directions.
  • Suggestions for general layout and flow of text and images.
  • Creating a publishable PDF.

If you’re looking for more options, I do offer advanced services below:

  • Designing a pattern template to use with all your published patterns.
  • Converting old patterns to a new template.
  • Creating written directions from charts.

Timing

When working out a new tech edit job, I’ll be able to give a better estimate and work out a deadline, but in general, my turn around is very quick. Basic tech editing jobs will take a week or less, and Check Ups will take 2-3 days in general.

Pricing

Tech Editing:

$20/hour (able to break down into .25 hour increments). When securing my services, we’ll discuss what you want edited – if it’s only a chart or a section, I’m more than happy to break up my hourly cost into quarter hour increments!

Template Creation:

$20 per template. This includes working out a general template theme (what sot of picture placement, layout, design colours) and then me implementing and creating a one of a kind word document for you to use with all your patterns.

Check Up:

$10-$15 (depending on pattern page count). A check up is a basic look-see for me to read through your pattern. I’ll check your wording, grammar, and overall layout. This doesn’t include checking the math, but I will compare small charts to written directions. I can also convert your final pattern to a PDF here, too.

Tools

I work primarily with word documents, PDFs, Stitch Fiddle, and Adobe Photoshop. I’m more than happy to work in Google Docs as well, if you’d prefer a collaborative experience.

My Experience

I’ve been writing and designing my own patterns since 2014, and testing / tech editing for other designers since 2013. I have great attention to detail, plenty of time on my hands, and the knitting & crochet experience to know what works for a pattern or doesn’t.

I look at each pattern as a chance to make the pattern the best it can be for other crafters. When editing a pattern, I aim to keep the spirit and feel of the designer intact, while also smoothing out any ruffled edges or minor errors.

Please feel free to email me for a quote or if you’re curious about my process!