Tech Editing
Why have your tech editing done by Core?
A degree in Journalism, 23 years in IT client care, exceptional math skills, and a love (maybe addiction is a better word) for knitting is why. Numbers and grammar are my jam.
Selling your first pattern is easy
You imagine it, you write it, you knit it, you take pretty pictures, and you publish it. BUT if you want to sell more than one pattern, hiring a technical editor for math, for language, for layout, for style, and for grammar accuracy is not negotiable.
Style Sheets
Do you have a style sheet? Great! If not, I can help you develop your pattern style, your cadence, those small touches that will make your patterns special. Your style sheet should include answers to, at least, the following items:
- Your preference for abbreviating knitting terms
- Formatting details such as fonts, font case, colors, etc
- Do you include charts or written instructions or both
- Do you create the chart manually
- Do you create the chart with Stitchmastery
- Do you need the chart created
- Sizing/grading standards that you use
- Rounding methods for both metric and imperial numbers
- Spelling and language items such as color or colour, cast off or bind off, etc.
The Process
We’ll start by discussing your goal and your deadline for the pattern(s). Are you looking for:
- Technical editing – numbers and logic
- Copy editing – layouts, working, fonts, etc.
- Both technical and copy editing
After I know what your goal is, I will set up a shared location for all documents, stylesheets, photos, etc.
Step 1
- You’ll drop your pattern and any supporting files (style sheets, pictures, font information, logo, etc) into our shared space.
- I’ll look it over and send back an estimate along with an agreement.
Step 2
- I’ll begin working on your file and will mark up the pattern’s initial set of changes and comments. Any questions I have will be addressed by (typically) email. Sometimes, a phone call or a Skype chat is in order if a pattern issue/technique needs a more in-depth explanation.
- I’ll send the marked-up pattern back to you within 5 days for your approval/input.
- You’ll incorporate these changes and respond to any questions/suggestions and send it back, adding comments and questions of your own.
Step 3
I’ll review and answer any of your questions and give my final ok/changes for publishing. This is included in the work as a courtesy.
Step 4 (if needed)
- If there is layout work to be done, it will start in Step 4.
- I’ll send the file back to you.
- You approve (or disapprove) these new changes, respond to any questions and suggestions, and send it back.
Final Step
I will send you an invoice, payable upon receipt.
Referrals are how we grow our businesses. If you're happy with the work I do for you, please shout it from the rooftops! If you're not happy, let me know why and I will make it right. Your success is my business.
