What does a tech editor do?

Tech editors look at every mark made on your pattern and check for a wide variety things that make your pattern work and look professional. Invest in your pattern by getting it tech edited.

WHAT WE DO

Each tech editor provides a variety of services, but the most important thing they offer is, well, tech editing they first look at the crucial technical things that make your pattern work, like the stitch counts, row counts, repeats, if measurements are accurate and correct, and so on. Then they take another look over the consistency in your style and phrasing, checking grammar and punctuation, and ensuring the instructions are in logical order.

WHY THEY ARE IMPORTANT

Tech editing is one of the most important things you could invest in for a professional pattern pattern. Without someone double checking your work, your pattern is open to a wide variety of mistakes, big or small. There is a famous saying among tech editors that goes "you cannot check your own work". When you have written a pattern, your brain knows what you want it to look like, so it subconsciously thinks it's perfect and ready to go. It's nearly impossible to find all the mistakes in your own work, which is why it's so important to have a second set of eyes.

WHEN YOU NEED ONE

You are ready for a tech editor after you have written up your pattern and before you send it out for testing. Pattern testers are not tech editors! Learn about the differences between tech editors and pattern testers, and why you need both.

What patterns should be tech edited? Well, all of them really. Even the "simple" patterns should be looked at, to ensure your style is consistent with your other patterns and to verify you didn't miss any silly, obvious mistakes. It does happen!

WHO COULD USE THE SERVICES

Every designer will benefit from using a tech editor, whether it's a one size headband, kitchen dishcloth, or sweater with 8+ sizes. Tech editors don't just check your numbers and spelling. You may reach out to them simply to have a custom schematic drawing made, have them create written instructions from a chart you provide, or get a style sheet made.

WHERE TO FIND ONE

There are various ways to find a tech editor that suits your needs. And don't be afraid to try a few out! Every editor has a different editing style, pricing, and services. You might try an editor and realize they aren't a great fit for you, and that's okay! There may be some cases where you might even use two editors, like one who specializes in accessories and another who specializes in garments. Or one who proofreads, and one who grades patterns.

HOW TO SAVE MONEY WITH A PRE-TECH EDIT CHECKLIST

Tech editors are expensive! Most charge an hourly rate, ranging from $20 to $40 an hour. When it comes to editing a cabled sweater in 8 sizes and two neckline options, that can add up. Now, it's well worth the money, but I understand people are on a budget.

The best way to save money with your editor is by going through an pre-edit checklist. Take the time to go through your pattern and find what mistakes you can. You don't want to whip up a pattern super fast and have your tech editor fix every little thing. Well, I mean I guess you can, but it will cost you more time and therefore more money with your tech editor.

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