How I Can Help You
It’s important for me as a tech editor to be able to get inside the head of the designer and share their vision for the finished result, so we can work together as a team to produce this.
I offer a range of tech editing services and packages including
- Knitting pattern editing and proofreading
- Pattern design consultations
- Size inclusive pattern grading for garments and accessories
- Copyediting documents, features and tutorials
- Creating a house style and consistent pattern format
- Pattern writing from given specifications
- Pattern layout design, schematics and charts
- Photo shoot assistance and advice
Some designers prefer I make the corrections myself and provide them with a finished copy, other clients (such as publishers) prefer I make comments for them to double check first before any changes are made. If I am making substantial changes or grading I can suggest another tech editor to get a second pair of eyes on the pattern if desired.
I am happy working with whichever way best suits the client.
Why You Need Me
I’ve been tech editing professionally since 2013, when I began working on knitting magazines full time and had in-house training. After 8 years in the industry I started my own business to allow more flexibility and to work with a wider range of designers.
I have edited a very extensive range of patterns over the years to include garments, accessories and homewares, and I have seen a huge variety of different construction styles and techniques.
I work to a very high standard and I love to share my knowledge throughout the tech editing process, making suggestions for improvements to the pattern that can also be considered for future projects. With the right guidance and direction, I believe all my clients can produce quality knitting patterns that are accurate, clear and accessible.
I love to connect on socials and will happily share your work if desired when you are looking for testers and when the pattern is released.
What Does Tech Editing Involve?
Primarily my job involves making sure knitting patterns are easy to understand, free from errors and that the knitter has an enjoyable experience.
When I receive a typical pattern I have a list of things that I go through before I get into the (k)nitty gritty of the numbers. If you want to save time with a tech editor it can help to look through this beforehand.
I go over the tension and the given measurements first, checking everything is going to roughly come out the size intended and that the ease is consistent throughout the range. Then I’ll look at the word formatting and make sure the abbreviations are all included and are consistent throughout.
I check over the charts all match the written instructions and that they won’t produce any errors, stitch patterns are going to fit into the stitch counts given, and I read through the whole pattern in detail, ensuring it is clear and follows a logical order before diving deeper into the maths.
It’s crucial that every section of the pattern is included and everything adds up correctly. I go through the instructions line by line and make sure all the stitch counts work, any increases or decreases adhere to the desired ease and measurements and that the yarn quantities are correct for each size. I work out everything in my spreadsheet, discussing any changes with the designer as often as we have agreed.
Drop Me A Line
Please feel free contact me with any questions and to discuss your requirements. We can chat via email, phone or video call, whichever you are most comfortable with.
During our initial conversation we can determine what you are looking for, your budget and how you prefer to work. I mainly work with Word, Google Docs, Excel, InDesign, Illustrator and Stitchmastery.
Technical editing is my passion – I LOVE a good puzzle and I’m keen to make knitting patterns easier for everyone to follow!
I had the pleasure of working with Faye on my very first published knitting pattern. She was very supportive and quick to respond, helping to correct newbie grading mistakes as well as improve the wording. I was delighted with the outcome, as were my test knitters.
Marit Veeber
@themoodyknitter