What is Tech Editing
Tech Editing is the discipline within pattern creation that helps designers keep true to their vision while providing in-depth editorial, copy-editing, math checks, and more. If you are a designer, hiring a tech editor helps ensure that your pattern flows, works as written, and follows standards. If you are a crocheter, buying a pattern that is tech edited helps you feel confident in the design you’ve chosen to make because you know it’s been verified and validated.
What do tech editors do?
Tech editors often have a personally curated checklist of each part of the pattern they review. As they become more practiced, their checklist evolves. Here are some common things tech editors will do:
Review all copy.
Check for stitch counts and ensure they are all accurate for every size.
Make sure the pattern flows and makes sense for how the design is constructed.
Flag where additional photos may be helpful to makers.
Ensure all abbreviations and stitches used are listed, defined, and consistent.
Each tech editor may offer additional services beyond the core outline above. Some things tech editors may also provide:
Chart creation.
Reviewing a tutorial video.
Translating a chart to written instructions.
Translating a video to written instructions.
Size grading.
Pattern Testing.
Tech Editing VS Testers - What’s the difference
Tech editors and testers often work hand in hand. While tech editors edit the pattern, they don’t often physically create the pattern. Designers also often only make one or two versions of the design, and if it’s something with many sizes, designers don’t always make each size. Testers often help fill this gap, ensuring that what is written becomes the intended object. They can also ensure the fit is correct and provide their finished object yardage and gauge for various fiber choices.
Note: In some spaces, especially for new designers, they may choose not to hire a tech editor and instead rely on testers. I don’t recommend this, as it means your full pattern isn’t reviewed as thoroughly and consistently as a tech editor can provide.
The best practice I recommend for designer success is:
Write and edit your pattern to the best of your ability.
Hire a tech editor to do a thorough review and edit.
Put out a tester call and give testers the edited pattern. Be sure to loop in the tech editor to help make any adjustments that the testers may discover.
The Elephant: Aren’t tech editors expensive?
It is standard to pay for tech editing services. This is because tech editing is incredibly specialized. Not only does the editor have to be an expert in copy editing, but they also need to be detail-oriented, know how to do complex math, and be able to knit or crochet (depending on what kind of design they are editing). This usually breaks down to an hourly fee of $20-$50 USD and anywhere from 2-10+ hours of editing. Each editor sets their own rates and should be able to give you an estimate of how long the edit will take for your pattern. While this might seem expensive, especially if you are planning to list the pattern for free or for a small amount, it will help elevate your brand and build customer trust.
So, now that you know what tech editing is, how do you feel about it? Are there any concerns you would have about working with a tech editor, or are you interested in becoming one? Let me know in the comments!
