Tech Editing and Grading

Tech editing

Tech editing is an important part of the process of releasing a new knitting pattern. Technical editing ensures that a knitting pattern is accurate, clear, and easy to follow. It helps catch any mistakes, improves readability, and confirms that the instructions will result in the desired finished project. By investing in tech editing, designers can provide a polished, professional pattern that knitters can trust, leading to a more enjoyable knitting experience and fewer customer queries.

  • How it works

    Once you have written and graded your pattern it is time to tech edit it, a great opportunity to get a fresh pair of eyes on the pattern to spot any mistakes or improvements that can be made. Test knitting usually occurs after tech editing.

    You send your pattern in an editable Word document and I will edit the document so you can see all changes, and I will check in with you along the way for any clarification required. The time it takes depends on the complexity of the pattern, but as a general guide a simple hat pattern with three sizes may take approximately two hours, while a complex jumper with eight different sizes may take ten hours.

  • Pricing

    I will provide an estimate upfront, based on the complexity of the design, and how well proofread the draft pattern is.

    As an example, a simple hat pattern will be approximately NZD $120 (roughly USD $75) and a complex jumper will be approximately $600 (roughly USD $375), with simple jumpers and shawls sitting somewhere in between.

    I am based in New Zealand, but can work with designers around the world. Payment must be made in NZD into a New Zealand bank account.

    Alternatively, if you have a strict budget let me know, and we can agree on which aspects of the pattern I focus on within the specified budget.

  • What is checked

    Accuracy of stitch counts and measurements (in cm and inches)

    Clarity of instructions

    Consistency of formatting and terminology

    Clarity and accuracy of charts, schematics, abbreviations and symbols

    Proofreading and editing

  • What is not included

    I will maintain your style and preferences

    I do not knit a sample or assist with test knitting

    I will not rewrite the whole pattern, if the pattern is not ready to be tech edited I will flag this during the quote

    Final layout design, I can provide feedback on what is provided, but will not rework the layout

    Technical support for knitters

  • Get started

    Use the form below to make an enquiry. Tell me a little bit about your pattern and timeframes and we can take things from there!

Enquire now

Grading

Grading is a separate process, where a pattern is written to fit a range of sizes. It's essential because it ensures that the pattern works for different body shapes and measurements, offering inclusivity and flexibility. Proper grading maintains the integrity of the design across sizes, ensuring that the fit, proportions, and style remain consistent, regardless of the size being knit.

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  • How it works

    Once you have written your initial pattern, grading is the next step where your sample is adjusted to work for multiple sizes.

    This involves adjusting the pattern and stitch counts for each size ensuring it will fit a variety of sizes beautifully.

    I will deliver an excel spreadsheet with stitch and row counts for each size, and can insert the stitch counts into your draft pattern.

  • Pricing

    I will provide an estimate upfront based on the complexity of the design and the number of sizes being graded. For example, grading a simple hat pattern with 3 sizes may cost approximately NZD $80 (roughly USD $50), while a complex multi-size jumper with a stitch pattern that needs to be maintained can cost around NZD $500 (roughly USD $300).

  • What's included?

    Adjustments to stitch counts and measurements for each size.
    Ensuring consistency in proportions and overall fit.
    Maintaining the design's integrity and style across sizes.
    Providing a clear grading chart for reference.

  • What's not included?

    Technical editing of the pattern itself

  • What I need from you

    Draft Pattern: A complete version of your pattern, including all sizes and any charts or schematics.
    Size Specifications: Detailed information on the sizes you want graded, including bust, waist, hip, length measurements, and any other relevant dimensions.
    Design Preferences: Any specific design elements or features that should be maintained across sizes, such as stitch patterns, shaping details, or unique construction methods.
    Timeline: Your desired timeline for the grading process, including any deadlines for release.

  • Get started

    Use the form below to make an enquiry. Tell me a little bit about your pattern and timeframes and we can take things from there!

Contact form