What is technical editing?
Technical editing is a detailed review of your pattern or book to make sure everything works visually, technically, and mathematically. A technical editor makes sure that your pattern is ready to give a maker a positive, smooth experience:
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Are the instructions clear, consistent, and easy to follow?
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Do the numbers make sense at every step?
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Is the construction sequence intuitive?
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Are complex techniques well-explained?
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Is the formatting consistent and the terminology well-defined?
Have you ever spent hours on a project or email, only to find a spelling mistake the second after you pressed send? As it turns out, it's hard to spot your own mistakes, especially on a project you've invested a lot of time into. A technical editor serves as a second set of eyes to make sure that all the little things you might miss are taken care of before you publish your pattern, book, or other document.
What is included in a technical edit?
Every project is different, but a technical edit generally includes:
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Basic proofreading for spelling, grammar, and typographic errors
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Review of block construction and assembly techniques for consistency and clarity
- Confirmation of yardage requirements, cutting instructions, and piece and block counts.
- Check of diagrams and charts for accuracy, clarity, and rendering issues
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Check of both the digital and print layout to make sure everything displays and prints correctly
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Alignment with your style sheet and established brand style choices
If something might confuse a maker, I'll flag it and make a suggestion to fix it or workshop it with you to get it just right for your customer.
How it works:
1. Submit your pattern
Send your draft with any relevant notes, diagrams, and concerns. I'll respond confirming I've received your project and added it to my calendar.
2. In-depth review
I go through your pattern line by line, checking for accuracy, clarity, and consistency. I review both the digital file and a printed copy to confirm every form of your pattern has been reviewed.
3. Receive feedback
You'll receive an annotated file (PDF, .docx, or Google Docs) with comments, corrections, and suggestions. Included in the return email will be links to any resources I reference as well as a detailed time sheet so you know exactly where the project stands.
4. Revise with confidence
Update your pattern with the freedom to ask questions. Once you've made changes I will happily give it a second look so you can be confident when you launch your project.
Why work with me?
I approach technical editing as both a detail-oriented review and a collaborative process. I recognize that creative work is heart work, and passion and accuracy can coexist (you can read more about my editing philosophy here).
My goal isn't just a technically-accurate pattern — it’s making sure that making your pattern is enjoyable for a maker.
You’ll get:
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Thoughtful, thorough feedback
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Respect for your design voice and style
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Clear explanations behind suggested changes
Most patterns I receive aren’t perfect, which is the point! You've done the heart work, now we refine it to make it something a maker will love to make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need a technical editor if I have pattern testers?
The short answer? Yes. The roles of pattern tester and technical editor complement each other.
Pattern testers follow your pattern and share feedback as makers.
Technical editing is a professional review focused on accuracy, clarity, and consistency.
Technical editing makes sure a pattern is solid before it's tested.
When should I hire a technical editor?
Typically after you've written your draft but before (or alongside) testing.
Do you edit quilt books or only individual patterns?
Both. Reach out with details about your project and we can determine the best approach.
My pattern is already tested or released, can you help?
Yes. If you are concerned about the accuracy, clarity, or vibe of your pattern, collaborative technical editing is possible any time after your draft is complete.
When should I hire a technical editor?
Typically after you've written your draft but before (or alongside) testing.
How long does it take?
Turnaround time depends on the length and complexity of your pattern. Once I review your project details, I'll provide an estimated timeline before getting started. For standalone patterns, an edit usually takes 2-4 hours and I aim to return your annotated files withing 1 week.
Do you offer rush edits?
Occasionally, depending on availability. If you have a tight timeline, include that information with your details and I will let you know what's possible.
What is the cost?
As of Spring 2025, my hourly editing rate is $35. In some specific cases, a flat fee can be negotiated, but most work is completed using the hourly rate.