Designing knitting patterns is a tricky business!

There are all those numbers and abbreviations to contend with, not to mention creating charts and schematics as well as having it all look ‘on brand’. It can quickly become overwhelming. As a designer myself I know how important it is that your pattern be as perfect as possible before being released into the world, which is why it would be my pleasure to relieve some of the overwhelm and take some of the weight off your shoulders.

With almost 15 years knitting experience and a past life in accounts and administration, where numbers and formatting were everything, I love the satisfaction of making sure that everything balances, any wrinkles have been ironed out and that everything is running smoothly. I believe that everyone deserves a relaxing knitting experience, and that includes the designer!

With a passion for hand knit accessories and experience editing patterns, creating charts and written instructions for both lace and cable motifs as well as designing beautiful pattern layouts in Canva, I’d be honoured to work with you and provide the support you need to bring your vision to life.

Tech editing is where you’ve written the pattern, created the charts and put the whole document together, but would like someone to check that everything adds up and it all makes sense before you send it out in to the world.

As your tech editor I will check that:

your key numbers and any pattern repeats are accurate
all increases/decreases give the necessary stitch counts
your charts match your written instructions (if required)
your pattern has the same format and style throughout
the gauge reflects the finished measurements given in your pattern.

I can also recommend any additional features should you wish to make your pattern accessible to knitters with additional low vision needs.

How does it work?

After discussing what you would like me to support you with I will ask you to send me a PDF copy of your pattern, so that I can confirm a price with you before getting started. You can find an outline of my prices below.

This price will include:

the initial edit
a second edit, once you have made any changes
a final check, if required, before you publish.

Once you’ve said you are happy to go ahead l will begin the edit.

My turnaround for each edit is 5 working days from receiving your confirmation email, though do ask if you need it quicker.

As your tech editor I will not make any changes to your pattern, I will simply annotate your PDF with any suggestions or changes needed, then send it back for you to make the changes you feel necessary.

How much will it cost?

I offer a flat rate that depends on the construction, number of sizes offered and whether there are any charts to be checked against the written instructions.

Package 1 – £30

Checking instructions and charts for accessories with one size, such as hats and shawls.

Package 2 – £50

Checking instructions and charts for accessories with up to 3 sizes, such as hats, cowls, socks.

Package 3 – £70

Checking instructions and charts for accessories with up to 5 sizes, such as hats, mitts or socks.

If you are unsure which package you require, or would like to combine this with another service, you can email me to discuss your needs.

If you would like to include charts in your patterns but don’t know where to start, I’m here to help! Allow me to relieve your stress and turn your written instructions in to a clear and simple chart.

What’s it like to work with me?

I can create charts for any of your knitted items whether garments or accessories. All you need to do is let me know which part of the pattern you would like charting and send me a .PDF copy of your written instructions. If for any reason your pattern isn’t suitable for turning in to a chart, I will let you know free of charge.

Once you have given me the go ahead I will:

Create a chart using your written instructions.
Draw the chart using Stitchmastery software.
Offer advice on how to word your instructions to best include the chart, if necessary.
Send you .jpeg copies of your chart with a separate key in both horizontal and vertical format so you can arrange the charts in your pattern however you wish.

How much will it cost?

Package 1 – £10

Simple chart with knits and purls
Basic increases/decreases that maintain the stitch count
No shaping

Package 2 – £20

Simple lace or cables
Simple increases/decreases that change the stitch count
Basic shaping

Package 3 – £30

Complex lace or cables
Complex increases/ decreases that change the stitch count
Complex shaping

If you are unsure which package you require or would like to combine this with another service, please email me to discuss your needs further.

If the thought of laying out and formatting your pattern makes you want to curl up and hide under a blanket, I hear you! It can be overwhelming and time consuming to get your pattern looking lovely, while still being easy for knitters to use. Fortunately I love nothing more than playing around with fonts and colours and would love to help you create knitting patterns that reflect your brand and your designs beautifully.

How much will it cost?

My hourly rate is £20 per hour, but as this is a more bespoke package I recommend that you email me so that we can discuss your ideas. Once I have an idea of how you would like me to help I will be able to provide a quote tailored to your specific needs.

Still not sure? Here’s what others have to say…

I’ve worked with Su a few times now to get my patterns ready for publishing and have been so happy with the support and advice she’s given me. As well as tech editing, Su has also created clear and professional looking charts for my patterns and it’s so reassuring to know that they are all in order. Working with Su really gives me confidence to go out there and publish a pattern, especially as I know it has been thoroughly reviewed and checked by someone who shares my passion for creating beautiful knits.

Helen Stuart – Knitted Up North

If you’re looking to hire a tech editor, I would highly recommend Su. Working with Su was an absolute pleasure. Not only does she have a thorough and professional approach to her work, but she’s like a hawk when it comes to detail. Her turnaround was well within the time-frame agreed and her rates are very reasonable! Thank you, Su!

Neisha Abdulla – Neish Designs

Get in touch

I’d love to chat about how I can support you on your pattern writing journey. Fill in the form below to get the ball rolling!