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!