Tech Editing

Are you looking to write your first crochet pattern? Or have you already written some? Would you like to have someone tech edit your patterns for clarity and accuracy?

I would love to help you! As a tech editor, I strive to have the following:
* Up to date knowledge of crochet standards.
* Attention to detail when checking math, grammar, formatting, consistency, charts / diagrams / schematics.
* The ability to understand new / unique crochet techniques and offer suggestions on clarity.

I have been crocheting and following patterns for over a decade. Since 2021, I have been designing and writing my own crochet and Tunisian crochet patterns. This experience opened me up to the world of pattern testers and tech editors. After completing a few pattern tests and providing detailed feedback on the whole pattern, the suggestion to become a tech editor was made. Being technically minded (thanks to my engineering degrees), detail oriented, and having a natural eye for typos, becoming a tech editor seemed like a perfect fit. I also LOVE crocheting, spreadsheets, and helping other designers create the best version of their pattern. If you have any questions about my experience or services that haven’t been answered in the FAQ below, please feel free to send me a message.

I look forward to working with you!

Kelly Lonergan

Testimonials

I highly recommend Kelly / Hazenna Inspired as a tech editor! She is extremely thorough and efficient. Her editing and suggestions have greatly improved the quality of my crochet patterns. I love the process of booking her services and she is an absolute pleasure to work with!

Jo to the World Creations

Kelly is an amazing tech editor. She has amazing knowledge and attention to detail, picking up things that really help take my patterns to the next level. She is prompt, professional and has friendly and clear communication and she goes above and beyond with her work. I am so happy to continue working with her.

Kate Made It

Kelly has incredible attention to detail, and her feedback is detailed, clear and precise. She is also so pleasant to work with: always encouraging and supportive. It gives me great peace of mind to know that my patterns have been checked by such a professional and knowledgeable editor. Kelly is definitely my “go to” tech editor!

Marija Sliogeris, Daisies in the Sunshine

Kelly has an eagle eye for catching any spelling and grammar mistakes or critical errors in the pattern or stitch count. The crochet terminology I use is very specific and can be difficult to read and edit at first, but Kelly managed this without any delay. Her edits were quick and efficient and above that, she had some thoughtful suggestions to offer in regards to style, layout and formatting. I highly recommend Kelly for technical edits of your crochet pattern.

Petra Creutziger, Black Sheep Crochet - writing stories in yarn

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tech editors and pattern testers?

Tech editors will check your entire pattern for consistency, crochet language, grammatical errors, crochet math, and clarity. They will not make your design in most cases, just offer feedback on the pattern document. Due to their expertise and thoroughness, tech editors are usually paid for their services.

Pattern testers are usually volunteers that will make your design. They can have varying crochet abilities which is great if your pattern is written for beginners. Testers should be able to find errors in the pattern (for the size they are making). They can check the fit of the item (if it is a garment), take photos of the finished item, and help with promoting the pattern.

In my opinion, both tech editors and pattern testers are crucial for the success of a pattern.

What will you check?

I will check your pattern for the following:

* Includes all the necessary general information and relevant sections (title, project description, project level, materials, yarn info, sizing / measurements, gauge, abbreviations, special stitches, construction, notes, instructions, finishing).

* Standard crochet terminology is used.

* Crochet language, style, and formatting are consistent.

* Correct grammar and punctuation are used.

* Crochet math is correct including stitch counts and measurements / sizing.

* Diagrams / schematics / charts match written instructions.

* Clarity and completeness of instructions.

What is the process?

To book a tech edit with me, purchase a block of time using the links on this page. Then book a day in my calendar and send me an email with your pattern attached.

I will review your pattern on the day you book and will aim to return it to you with comments within 24-48 hours. After you have updated your pattern, I am happy to look at it again before you send it to testers. You do not need to book another time in my calendar.

I will keep track of the time spent editing your pattern. Any unused time can be used for another pattern and will not expire.

What can you tech edit?

I can edit most crochet and Tunisian crochet patterns (US or UK/AUS terminology). If I feel like the pattern is beyond my expertise, I will suggest another tech editor at no charge to you.

I can edit Word documents, Google Docs, and PDFs.

Can you create stitch diagrams?

Yes! I love creating stitch diagrams. I use an app on my iPad called Linearity Curve and the standard crochet symbols as defined by Craft Yarn Council. I can save the stitch diagram as a JPG, PNG, SVG, or PDF file. If you would like me to create a stitch diagram for you, please purchase a block of time using the links on this page, book a day in my calendar, and send me an email with your pattern attached or a sketch of your stitch diagram.

Do you offer grading?

No, I do not offer grading for crochet garments, but I will check the math done by the designer.

What are your rates?

The current rate for my services (tech editing and stitch diagram creation) is $45 AUD/hour. My time can be pre-purchased using the links on this page.

The time it will take me will vary depending on the complexity of the pattern and the number of corrections that need to be made.

Booking Steps

Step 1

Purchase time

Select a block of time in the dropdown box below. The Buy Now button will redirect you to a PayPal page where you can complete your purchase.

Step 2

Schedule your edit

Choose a day in my calendar below. I will review your pattern on the day you book and will aim to return it to you with comments within 24-48 hours. I will not call you during this meeting time, so don’t worry if it is an odd time in your timezone. We will only be communicating via email. Please be sure to purchase time and send me your pattern before your scheduled time starts.
This scheduling system is here for both your benefit and mine. It gives you an indication of my current workload and an expectation of when you will receive your edited pattern so you can work to any deadlines you might have. For my benefit, it ensures that I don’t overcommit myself. Being a full-time mom, my schedule changes daily so I am currently allowing for one tech edit per day, Monday – Wednesday. This availability will change in the future when my girls start school.

https://calendly.com/hazennainspired/techedit

Step 3

Send me your pattern!

Email your Word document, Google Doc, or PDF pattern to kelly@hazennainspired.com before your scheduled time starts.