What is a crochet technical editor?

A crochet technical (tech) editor works to ensure a designer’s patterns are accurate, clear, and easy to follow resulting in a high-quality publishable pattern. Although proof-reading your own pattern is great, errors can often be overlooked, and a fresh pair of eyes can help to identify areas that lack clarity for the naïve reader. As a tech editor, I hope to relieve designers of some of the pressure associated with pattern-checking, editing, and formatting – supporting the very best version of a pattern to publication.

Who am I?

I am a certified crochet tech editor having completed a comprehensive tech editing course hosted by the UK leading tech editor Carol Ibbetson. This is an extensive course, that provides hands-on experience editing a wide range of crochet patterns and techniques. More information about this course is available here.

I have an academic background having completed a PhD in Psychology and maintain a keen eye for detail while embracing numbers, logic and problem solving. I intend to bring clarity and precision to a designer’s pattern, while retaining their creative style and flair.

What do a I check?

I have a comprehensive checklist that I work with, the following are to give an idea of the types of checks I make:

• Materials used – including yarn types (weight, colours, colour codes etc.) and hook size conversions.

• Terminology (UK or US) and use of abbreviations.

• Size and measurment checks, using the tension given.

• Stitch counts, row/round counts, and pattern repeats.

• Clarity of written instructions.

• Consistency of formatting – working to a ‘style sheet’, previous pattern or designers preferences.

I work closely with designers to ensure their expectations of a tech edit will be met and encourage an open discussion before starting each project. I can offer extra services (e.g., converting patterns from UK to US terminology, creating charts etc.) depending upon the needs of the designer.

How does it work?

Following a discussion with the designer, I will complete the tech edit by adding comments and queries to the pattern digitally (e.g., using Microsoft Word, Adobe, Google docs etc.). I will not edit the pattern directly (unless requested) as I believe changes are ultimately the choice of the designer. If I query mathematical inconsistences (e.g., incorrect stitch counts) I will show my working and offer a correction (if possible). This process can be repeated any number of times – ensuring the designer is entirely happy with the final pattern. 

What are the costs of a tech edit?

The cost of a tech edit will be largely influenced by the complexity of the pattern and the requirements of the designer. I am happy to provide a costing estimate for any pattern and charge £20 per hour, in fifteen-minute blocks. If you are unsure of the benefits of using a tech editor, I can provide a one-page sample tech edit of a pattern upon request.

If you have any questions regarding tech editing in general, or the services I can offer, please get in touch!