Tech Editing

These days it’s extremely easy to self-publish a knitting pattern, but publishing a great pattern, that’s a little more challenging. If you want to create patterns that are well written, easy to understand, and have people coming back for more of your designs, I would highly recommend tech editing. Having an extra set of eyes to check your written instructions, charts, math, stitch count, etc can only improve your pattern! Whether your pattern is nearly ready to be published, or in the beginning stages of being written, I can help.

I’ve written several patterns of my own, (including being published in KnitScene!) plus re-written and edited patterns for myself and my students when the instructions were not concise or accessible for knitters of varying experience levels. I attended The Tech Editor Hub’s “Learn to Tech Edit Knitting” course, where I learned how to tech edit in a professional capacity. Since then, I have edited numerous knitwear patterns that are now published! I am excited to continue my tech editing journey and hope we can work together!

Here’s how it will work:

    • Send me an email at kylen@yarnovereverything.co or connect with me on yarnpond.com for an inquiry.
    • After hearing about your pattern or seeing the PDF, I will provide an estimate of how much time it may take. (Typical estimates: simple accessories – 1 hr, complex accessories – 2-4 hrs, garments – 2-10 hrs depending on sizes and techniques.) My turnaround time for each round of editing is about 2 days, and I will let you know my capacity in advance. Once you’ve accepted the estimate, I will get started!
    • After receiving your pattern PDF (and style sheet if you have one, or any other important materials) I will mark up your document using iAnnotate, and export the file to Google Drive OR email you the PDF. I will make it clear which edits are necessary to fix and which are just suggestions.
    • A typical pattern edit involves checking for the following things: 
      • Gauge, materials, sizing/finished measurements, etc.
      • Spelling & grammar
      • Abbreviations, glossary, references, techniques
      • Stitch count, rows/rounds
      • Consistency between schematics, charts, & written instructions
      • Overall clarity
    • I will keep you updated on the timeline, and let you know if I think I’ll go over the estimate. If your timeline is very quick, I may charge a rush fee. I always do 2 rounds of editing, sometimes more depending on the pattern complexity.
    • My rate is $35/hr.
    • After we agree the editing process is complete, I will send an invoice to your email via Wave. You will then have 15 days to make the payment via credit, debit, or bank account.

Additional Services

Ghost writing: I will craft your notes into a concise, well-formatted pattern for you to publish. All you need to do is provide the notes, photos, and yarn details.

Chart creation: I will take the written instructions from your pattern and convert them into an easy to read chart for those knitters who are more visual and prefer reading from charts!

Grading: I will take your single-sized pattern and transform it into a pattern that fits a variety of bodies so it can be as accessible to knitters as possible! I am happy to use measurements provided, but typically utilize Ysolda Teague’s Sizing Chart for Knitwear Designers as well as Jill Wolcott’s Sizing Tables.

Ravelry pattern page creation: I will create the Ravelry pattern listing complete with yarn and needle requirements, photos, helpful instructions, and attach the pdf within your Ravelry store so that your pattern can be eye-catching and attract all sorts of knitters!

Schematic creation: I will draw a visual rendering of your pattern and add measurements or any other markings needed. This will elevate your pattern and show knitters the exact dimensions and shape of the finished object.