Hi! I’m Jessica, a tech editor specializing in crochet garments and accessories. I’ll provide the professional polish that gives you and your brand a reputation for great design and well-written patterns.
Crochet is my favorite fiber art, and it’s a rare day when I don’t have a hook in hand at some point! I spend a lot of time browsing patterns and trying out new techniques, which means I’m very familiar with what goes into a well-written modern crochet pattern. I can help you feel confident that yours meet that standard and give people the quality they expect!
Interested? Let’s set up a complimentary meet and greet and talk more about how we can work together.
What is tech editing anyway?
It ensures pattern accuracy and consistency
Tech editing in fiber arts is the process of checking a pattern or document for technical correctness. Among other things, it includes reviewing abbreviations and terms; double-checking stitch counts and measurements; confirming that all key sections of a pattern are present, and making sure that document formatting is consistent instead of confusing.
Patterns that are tech edited before going to pattern testers allow the testers to focus on the process and experience without getting tripped up by typos or missing steps. Pre-test editing can reduce the number of revisions you’ll have to send out… which makes it more likely that your testers will meet the test deadline and provide useful feedback!
It’s a collaboration between designer and editor
The process starts with defining timelines and expectations. Once those are settled, the editor and designer work back and forth. The tech editor makes corrections and suggestions, then the designer makes revisions and returns it to the editor for additional review. This exchange continues as needed until the pattern is ready for testing or release.
A good tech editor will respect a designer’s preferences, and should not insist that you use a predefined template or change your writing style*. My guiding principle is that your voice, style, and vision should always shine through.
* The exception is when your pattern will be part of a published collection. Publishers may have style and formatting guidelines that all included patterns need to follow. In this case, I’m happy to work with you to convert your pattern as needed to match their style guide.
It’s not the same thing as pattern testing
Tech editing focuses on the syntax, or structure, of the pattern. Editors don’t make the item themselves; instead, they check details for all sizes and styles and ensure that all pattern elements, including text, graphics, and diagrams, agree with each other and follow the designer’s style guide.
Pattern testers focus on the semantics, or intention, of a pattern. They follow the steps exactly as written for just one selected size or variation. Their role is to ensure that the designer’s instructions produce the designer’s vision. They also provide feedback on difficulty level, ease of understanding, and the overall experience of making that pattern.
Let’s get started!
Drop me a note if you’d like to learn more about what I can do for you. I look forward to helping you and your patterns stand out!
