In the world of pattern writing, many people have a hand in
getting a good pattern out and into the world. One person that the average
crocheter never hears of, but that designers rely on is the Technical Editor. A
Tech Editor usually works in a freelance capacity, working for publishers and
yarn companies, as well as small independent designers. The job that they do is
critical to ensuring that a pattern actually works and makes what it says it
will.
Many that work in this professional area, began after
working in other areas of the crochet industry. Some were and are Designers,
some Contract Stitchers, and some Teachers, but all have a long understanding
and love affair with crochet, as well as some understanding of how the crochet
industry works.
The average day as a Tech Editor varies by the individual.
Some work this career part time, still keeping their hand in other areas of
work, others delve in full time. All however do understand their own work
styles and limitations. As they have to utilize much math skills, they usually
know what time of day they are sharpest for that kind of work, and niche out
that time as their work hours. Even though all approach their work a little
differently, dependent upon what works for them, they all have the same
outcome. They must ensure that the pattern is formatted in the manner requested
by the employer, meaning that if the publisher’s pattern style is to have the
beginning chain stitches for each row at the end of the prior row or the
beginning of the working row, the pattern should be set up that way, as well as
all abbreviations matching. They also make sure the font is correct, the
spacing, everything that goes into the finished pattern to ensure that it is
consistent with the rest of the patterns in the publication.
Then they go on to the pattern itself. They go over the
gauge, and ensure that the measurements provided will actually work out with
the row and stitch count and give the desired end product. Then read over every
row to ensure that the stitch counts and repeats are all correct, they review
increases and decreases, and they pull out yarn and work confusing steps out to
see if there may be a simpler way of explaining them, they attempt to make the
pattern as clean and orderly as possible. They may create graphs or charts to
make the pattern simpler, if requested from the employer. They are a second set
of eyes for a designer and a quality control for the publisher. Every designer has
a different way of writing and expressing their design, a Tech Editor helps to
bring that voice in unison of how others “speak” crochet, so that the pattern
user can readily enjoy the design.
Dependent upon the employer, they may even provide the
pattern support long after the pattern is published. Meaning, if you have ever
had a question in that magazine or book and contact the publisher, they are the
ones to address the question and help you find the answer.
Most are paid on an hourly wage; however some receive a flat
rate for service, while work is often found from word of mouth, as well as
through a network of connections throughout the industry. Some may utilize the
skills needed in this career in a few other arenas, such as other fields of
editing and writing. Attention to detail is a very desirable skill in this
profession, as well as patience to work through complex problems. Being able to communicate with many different
styles of personalities can also be an added benefit. While be adaptive to
various computer software programs, and being able to focus and concentrate on
the unique requests of each employer are a must. But the most important skill
needed it a strong understanding of math, and the ability to decipher it in
patterns.
To begin a career as a Tech editor, engaging in networking opportunities
with the crochet industry, such as the CGOA annual Chain Link Conference (the
Knit & Crochet Show) is a great benefit. Investigating employment opportunities
with publishers and yarn manufactures is also a starting point. While applying to
become an Associate Professional with CGOA is an additional benefit.
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