Technical Editing
What is technical editing?
Although you can read and re-read your pattern time and time again, spotting mistakes or areas that could be clearer in your own work can be a challenge. Technical editing is a detailed review of your quilt pattern to help make sure it is as clear, cohesive and concise as possible. I can offer a fresh perspective on your pattern and support you in minimising the risk of errors and making sure your pattern is ready for your customers.
Technical editing vs pattern testing
Most pattern testing focusses on user experience over detailed editing. In contrast, technical editing reviews a pattern with a high level of attention to detail to all aspects of the pattern including checking mathematical accuracy, ensuring pattern consistency and noting stylistic errors.
Why work with me?
I am an experienced quilter, pattern designer and editor with years of professional experience in the publishing industry.
Professional expertise: After 10 years as an Editor in the publishing industry, I have extensive experience of working closely with writers to develop all aspects of their manuscript ready for publication.
Pattern designer: I have released over 20 of my own patterns to date and take great pride in the fact that pattern testers and customers regularly comment on how accurate they are. I also regularly work for Love Patchwork & Quilting Magazine, Make Modern Magazine and QuiltCon Magazine.
Experienced quilter: I teach a wide range of quilting skills and techniques for various ability levels from total beginners to quilters looking to level up in specific skills.
Testimonials
Cait has been my tech editor since I began writing patterns in 2022. Her work is excellent and I’ve never felt the need to try a different tech editor. Cait is conscientious and catches even little errors, like when text isn’t centered. I breathe easier at pattern releases knowing my pattern has been tech edited by Cait. I’m more confident my math and grammar are correct, and that the overall look is as professional as possible.
Victoria - Midlife Quilter
Cait did an amazing job editing my new quilt pattern before its release. She checked all the maths related to the cutting and fabric requirements which gave me a great peace of mind as she found quite a few mistakes! The communication was great and the turnover was super fast. I am sure I will contact her again for my next quilt pattern!
Ana - CocoWawa Crafts
How does it work?
My preferred format for your completed pattern is an emailed PDF file (other file formats can be agreed), which I will mark up with suggested edits. Upon receipt of your pattern I will conduct a comprehensive review including:
In-depth line-by-line editing and proofreading, including grammar, spelling and style.
Checking all diagrams, graphics and assembly instructions thoroughly and offering suggestions for improved clarity.
Extensive review of all quilt maths including fabric requirements, cutting instructions and general construction.
Ensuring consistency of style and formatting throughout.
Reviewing diagrams, graphics, and assembly instructions.
Checking instructions are suited to the level of quilter you are designing for.
Providing feedback on general pattern flow and readability.
Please note that I will provide comments and suggestions for you rather than making the corrections myself.
Timelines
While every project varies based on the pattern complexity, how many edits are required and a variety of other factors, the majority of patterns take 2-4 hours to review. I aim to return edits to clients within five working days of receiving pattern files (unless otherwise agreed). If you wish to make edits following my initial review and send your pattern back to me for another round of editing that can easily be arranged - I will continue to work with you until you are satisfied with your pattern. The first pattern I work on with a new client is usually the one that takes the most time as I familiarise myself with your pattern style.
I recommend having your pattern technically edited before sending to pattern testers to enable your testers to focus on user experience.
Pricing
I charge an hourly rate which is agreed with clients before work begins. I track my time carefully in a spreadsheet and charge in five minute increments. Invoices are sent at the conclusion of the agreed work and are due within two weeks.
I offer a 15% discount on my rates for book projects.
Let’s do this!
I would love to work with you to help make your patterns the very best they can be. If you want to learn more, please fill out the form below to get started with a no obligation enquiry.