Tech editing is a vital but often underestimated step in the pattern publishing process. Below, I have tried to answer some common questions about tech editing and give you an overview. If the information you’d like isn’t there, or you have more questions, please contact me using the form at the bottom of this page.
What is tech editing?
Tech editing is the process of proofreading a pattern and checking it for errors and useability. It is really important as it ensures that the crocheter using it is able to work with it easily. Aspects such as clarity, brevity and accuracy are all checked.
Why is it important?
Have you ever used a pattern and thought ‘this doesn’t make sense’? Or found mistakes in counting stitches? Chances are that the pattern hasn’t been tech edited. Tech editing makes a pattern more user-friendly, accurate and consistent.
What are the benefits for me as a designer?
There are a few, such as knowing your patterns are consistently well written. If you are wanting to build up a good reputation as a designer, then quality is key-you want your patterns to be so well written that crocheters are waiting for your next one to be released as your work is so fantastic. Also, as tech editing is a two-way process, I can help you to figure out any tricky parts. If you ask me to edit a pattern, I will always ask you if there are any parts in particular that you want checking. Think of it as having an extra pair of eyes!
What exactly do you check?
This list isn’t exhaustive, but it gives you an idea of what I check
- Information about the yarn-type, weight, colour codes etc.
- Materials list, including hook sizes conversions
- Tension
- Size, using the tension given
- Abbreviations and correct usage of them
- UK/US terms
- Checking sizes against industry standards
- Making sure your written instructions work, including colour changes
- Checking stitch counts
- Finishing instructions
- Consistency, including how pattern repeats are written
How does it work?
Essentially, you send me the pattern, I read it, check it and add comments-I don’t make changes directly unless that is something you’ve asked me to do, e.g. for typos or grammatical errors. I may ask you questions-if I spot a mistake in the stitch count or instructions, I will show you my working and query it with you. I will also make suggestions related to clarity of instructions, or other items from the checklist, to support you in deciding how you want your pattern to look.
Does it cost a lot?
Cost depends on a lot of things, such as the type and complexity of pattern, number of sizes, amount of detail. I charge £20 per hour, in 15 minute blocks. As a rough guide, a simple project such as a plant pot holder might take 1 hour, a complicated motif pattern 1.5-2 hours, whereas a blanket or garment could need 3 hours or more. The more patterns you write and have tech edited, the quicker (and cheaper) the process is likely to be as you will know your sticking points.
Can’t my pattern testers just tell me where there are errors?
Yes, to an extent, they may pick up errors in numbers, or typos, when testing. But their main role is to actually make the item, a tech editor makes sure that the instructions you give to your testers will help them to create your design. Many of the things I check are far beyond the remit of a pattern tester, such as checking tension and sizes.
I’ve read my pattern through and it makes sense to me, do I really need a tech editor?
As a designer myself, I can say that even if I have read my pattern over and over, there will still be mistakes. Partly because I’m human, but also because I will have made that item multiple times as part of the design process and lived and breathed it’s creation over days, weeks or even months. I know exactly what it is supposed to say. But the question is, does it actually say that when read through someone else’s eyes? There will always be parts that need a little tweak!
What other services do you offer?
I can convert your pattern from UK to US terms or vice versa, help you produce a style sheet (a list of your preferences for abbreviations, how you want your pattern to look, how you’d like pattern repeats to be written etc.) and create charts.
Does it really make a difference?
If you’d like to see what tech editing can do for your patterns, I offer a free sample edit of one page of your pattern. You can book this using the contact form below.
I hope the above information has answered any questions you may have. If you’d like to know more please use the contact form and I will get back to you as soon as possible.
