Sometimes the least recognized crochet profession is the
Contract Crocheter. They often do not have their names listed in magazines,
they are not highlighting their work on websites, or doing podcasts, but they
are silently working behind the scenes creating samples that are photographed
in book, that are displayed in store fronts, and are walking on runways. Some
might think that this less highlighted profession is an easier one, but they
would be greatly mistaken.
Contract crocheters often work as a part time position,
usually holding full time jobs in other career fields. Contracted jobs creating
samples are “feast or famine” as jobs are usually more available when new yarns
and books are being created to enter the market, this is because many patterns
that will need to be completed at once, but then as deadlines pass there can be
a lull in work options.
Some of the prerequisites to doing this kind of work in the
field of publishing include the ability to communicate effectively. Often contractors
need to ask questions and give feed back to those requesting the work, even offer
information about the performance of the yarn and the pattern. There are even
times when designers are in the process of working out the pattern yet the
contractor is working up the sample, so in effect contractors are creating a
sample without having completed patterns and are working from rough
descriptions. They also should have to have the ability to keep work private
from friends, family and general community; most of the work that they do is scheduled
for release at a particular time and speaking of it in a public forum, or
posting photos of their work on Facebook, could end their career in this field.
Another skill needed is neat, even and consistent crochet ability,
which must meet gauge, of all projects they work on. Knowing the basics is a
must and knowing special stitches and techniques are a great addition to the
resume. However in addition, one of the most critical things necessary, they
must meet very strict and tight deadlines. Often they receive short deadlines
to complete a project, and there is often no wiggle room on getting things done
on time. (This includes shipping times; they often have to account for how long
it will take for a package to arrive, and adjust their working timeline to
ensure that it arrives on time).
Those that provided contract services to local yarn shops or
private consumers, have a little more flexibility. Yarn shops owners understand
that more yarn is sold when consumers can see and touch a piece completed in
particular yarn. Work in these settings may not be as frequent or steady as
that in publishing, as shops do not need samples in every yarn for every
season. Private consumers sometimes hire contractors to create personalized
crochet projects and gifts. There are even some contractors working with
clothing manufactures. While this conjures up images of sweat shops, many work
from their homes for small boutique designers making edgings, lapels or
embellishments. These options give some contractors the ability to create a
little more control in their business lives.
Payment to contractors is almost as varied as the
contractors themselves. Some are paid a set flat rate for the work, determined
by the size and difficulty of the work, some are paid a percentage of the pattern
designer’s contract, others are paid by the yardage crocheted.
As this profession is looked at more as a support to other
professions, it can be more difficult to break into. Many, if not all,
contractors have received most of their work by networking and meeting people
that might be in need of service. A lot of the work is regional, to reduce
shipping costs and time, many professionals find it easier to work with those
that live in a close area to themselves. Many contractors have found work from
local guild meetings, from conversations with other yarn enthusiasts, national
conferences, and some have even had success from following various designers
and answering there call for stitchers.
Many assume that contractors are the same as pattern
testers, however there is a subtle difference between the two; more is expected
from a contractor. Testers often supply the yarn and keep the samples, offering
feed back to the pattern writer about their experienced with the pattern; while
contractors are sent the yarn to complete the project, having to return the
samples, all remaining yarn, and all yarn labels. Testers may be paid in some
instances, but contractors are definitely to be paid.
The next time you see a beautifully stitches pattern, be it
that sweater, afghan, baby layette, have appreciation not only for the design,
but for the workmanship that went into creating the sample. There are many
unsung heroes of contractors that help ensure deadlines get met and that new
inspirations are shared with the crochet world.
If you are interested in becoming a Contract Crocheter, you
may want to have your work evaluated through the CGOA Master’s of AdvancedStitch and Technique Program, and begin networking in the fields that you might
want to work in. You may also consider applying for status as an Associate
Professional with CGOA. This is a profession that you can create your own
unique niche market, but it is not for the faint of heart.