Even Better Patterns

You already have a beautiful design

Let's make the pattern Even Better

Tech Editing for Knitting Patterns

by Lesley Arnold-Hopkins

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What does a Tech Editor Do?


In many ways, they do as much or as little as you wish, but here are some of the typical services offered.



  • Checking the pattern for accuracy - ensuring that the numbers work out, including over different sizes
  • Looking for consistency in abbreviations and instructions
  • Check terminology
  • Produce a written pattern from your charts
  • Suggesting things that might help the knitter
  • Working with you to make your pattern Even Better

I know how to write a pattern – why should I get it Tech Edited?


It is hard to look at our own work objectively, especially a creative project in which we’ve invested time and dedication. Because we know what we want the pattern to say, we can’t always see it from the point of view of someone new.


A Tech Editor brings a “fresh pair of eyes” to the pattern, and can spot those small errors and inconsistencies that we are all capable of making and missing.


The Tech Editor makes your pattern Even Better


Having completed the Tech Editing Course run by Carol Ibbotson of Cool Wool School, I have added expertise to experience and look forward to working with you to make your wonderful design into an Even Better Pattern.


Who is Lesley Arnold-Hopkins?


I’ve been a knitter and crocheter for many decades and had patterns published in Let’s Knit and Inside Crochet magazines, as well in Dorling Kindersley’s Crochet, The Complete Step by Step Guide and Fashion Crochet: 30 crochet projects inspired by the catwalk. I understand what it’s like to be a designer, and to put your pattern out into the world. This is in addition to offering patterns online.


I am also the presenter of the "Not Quite Enough Yarn" Podcast.

Why should I use Lesley to Tech Edit my patterns?


I’ve had the benefit of having my patterns Tech Edited and it’s a lot easier to answer questions from the editor when the pattern is fresh in the mind, than it is to answer queries from a knitter or crocheter a few years later. (Guess how I know).


To be honest, there have been times when the Tech Editor has come back with a question that has made me wonder what I was thinking, as an error has been so obvious.


So I have not come into Tech Editing as a person who thinks that they never make mistakes, but as someone who has developed plenty of checks and balances to catch those mistakes, my past errors have been good teachers, helping me to create Even Better Patterns.


How does it work?


  • You send a picture of your project/design/pattern and whatever details you have, along with your drafted pattern to evenbetterpatterns@gmail.com.
  • Let me know what you'd like done (tech edit, formatting, checking charts, let me know your timescales etc) and I give you an estimate of how long it will take, and a quotation of the cost. Assuming you are happy, we agree timescales and what's required, and then I carry out your instructions.
  • If you want to send me your sample, that can be helpful, but photographs and notes would also work well. That way, we can do everything electronically.


How much will this cost me?


Naturally, that depends on the type and complexity of the pattern. My hourly rate is £22, and I measure my time in 15 minute blocks (ie £5.50 per quarter hour)


As a rough guide, here are some approximate timings:

Scarf, hat or cowl (up to 3 sizes) - 2 hours

Socks, gloves and mittens (up to 3 sizes) - 3-4 hours

Garments - 3 - 7 hours, depending on complexity and number of sizes.


The first time we work together...

I want you to feel confident that you know how much this service will

cost, so whatever I quote will be the maximum I charge - if it takes

longer than I had estimated, that will not be charged on to you.