Crochet designers, you’re in the right place! Get your patterns in tip top condition with my tech editing services!
Imagine buying a pattern and then finding that the stitch count doesn’t work, or the row numbers don’t add up, or there are abbreviations without definitions, or there are numerous spelling or grammatical errors that just grate! There are so many teeny tiny errors that can crop up in a crochet pattern that are so hard to spot by the untrained eye, and it is especially hard to spot issues with your own work! That’s why I truly believe all crochet patterns should go through the technical editing process.
How can I help?
I am available to book now!
I offer a comprehensive check of your pattern, working with you to ensure your unique style and format is retained. I check the pattern line by line, looking for spelling and grammatical errors, correcting mathematical mistakes, and checking all abbreviations, stitch counts and repeats. I will ask a lot of questions at the beginning before going off with your pattern to do my thing. I’ll come back with a first edit, and once you have incorporated any changes into the pattern, I can take another look if you like, and so on until you are happy.
“Crocheters deserve to have clear, accurate and beautifully written patterns every time.”
Why hire me?
There are many aspects of my studies that make me a great tech editor! Firstly, I am a certified crochet tech editor, having completed the Cool Wool School’s comprehensive course. I have also completed their grading course, which means I can help with grading too!
I have a crochet diploma and a lot of experience crocheting. I also design my own patterns, so have a good idea of what I’m looking out for.
I studied English at university, which gives me a great understanding of the language, including spelling and grammar.
I am also a part-time accountant. This means I have a good grasp of the maths side of crochet patterns. I understand and use formulae regularly and will use it to check the maths in your patterns.
I am also a bit of a perfectionist. I can spot mistakes a mile off and know when something is not quite right.
But don’t worry, I’m not at all critical. I will use constructive comments and suggestions to help improve your pattern. I will never tell you that something is wrong. After all, it is your pattern, and you can have it however you like!
Why can’t I just use a pattern tester?
A tech editor is very different to a pattern tester. A pattern tester will make your pattern and see if it comes out right. They will comment on things like sizing, tension and if any of the instructions are confusing. What they won’t do is go into the nitty gritty of the pattern. They won’t look at spelling, grammar, stitch counts, formatting, wording, grading, and a whole host of other things. This is why you really do need to use both a tech editor and pattern testers for all of your patterns. If you’d like to read more about why I think crochet designers should use a tech editor, check out my blog post here.
How does it all work?
Once we have agreed to work together, you will send over your pattern. I’m happy to work in any format, whether it’s Word, Google Docs, Canva, or pdf. If you have a Style Sheet or previous pattern, I will use that as a reference point.
I will give you an estimate of how long I think the tech edit will take, and therefore how much it’s going to cost before I get started, and if I think it’s going to take a lot longer, I’ll come back to you and let you know. We’ll also discuss any deadlines you have and work out a good turnaround time. Generally I work very quickly, so you shouldn’t have to wait very long.
Examples of what I can do for you:
- Check mathematical accuracy to ensure all calculations, repeats and stitch counts are correct
- Proofread for spelling, punctuation and grammatical errors
- Check grading for accuracy
- Check for consistency in the written format of the the pattern
- Compare written instructions with charts and images for consistency
- Ensure all necessary information is included, e.g. sizing, yarn requirements, tension
- Check any links for correctness
- Check all abbreviations are listed correctly
I can also:
work with you in a more involved capacity, writing crochet blog posts, re-formatting patterns, updating old patterns, writing patterns from notes. If you have something in mind, let me know!
Publishers, I can help you too!
Having now edited four books and counting, I have a good understanding of what needs to be checked when it comes to pattern checking book designs. I love to get into the detail in a crochet book, checking for consistency and correctness across all of the patterns in the book!
If you’re a publisher looking for a tech editor, please do get in touch! gemma@concretegems.co.uk
What others have said
I asked Gemma to tech edit a crochet tote bag pattern I had designed a while ago that needed refreshing ahead of a relaunch. Gemma was very clear with her suggestions and comments and had a real eye for the details. It’s amazing what a fresh pair of eyes can find! I highly recommend Gemma for any crochet tech editing needs, and I look forward to working with her again in the future. Thank you for your speed and precision Gemma!
Lyndsey
Artisan Crochet Designs
I have just started working with Gemma as a crochet pattern tech editor and am delighted! She is thorough, concise, clear and communicates brilliantly. The level of detail is awesome and I am in no doubt that Gemma check every last aspect of the pattern that you could think of! Thank you so much.
Hannah
HanJan Crochet
I was really amazed at your speed at getting through the pattern. I have found your comments and suggestions extremely useful. It’s true what they say about not being able to see the mistakes in your own work. I think I have found my forever tech editor. Thank you.
Sally
I Can Craft UK
I’d love to work with you!
If you think we’re a good fit, fill in the form below and I’ll get back to you, or drop me an email at gemma@concretegems.co.uk and we can chat more!