There are a lot of changes with the podcast for 2023. First, a slight change of name. We realized fairly quickly last year that we had unintentionally left out the Crochet designers when we named the podcast. So, starting now, the name is “Craft. Design. Edit. Sleep. Repeat.” It might take a few days to get all the sites where the name shows up changed, but it’s going to happen.
Second, it’s now just me, Lisa. Denise and Tiffany both had to step away from the podcast because of health, jobs, just life.
So what do Tech Editors edit? It’s not just patterns. We can edit any fiber related writing including patterns, articles, class handouts, and books. Since most of us work as independents for independents, we don’t see many articles as the magazines will have staff editors. Books can also be rare, but due to a surge in independent publishing, it’s an important service that we offer. The writing that gets the least attention, but can be very important, are class handouts. If you are teaching, please consider having those handouts edited. Errors in a handout can frustrate a beginner, or even an experienced crafter if the information or technique is new to them.
Editors often offer multiple services related to editing. These include grading (turning a sample size into multiple sizes), drawing schematics which show the sizing, accessibility formatting, and chart rendering (turning written instructions into charts). Make sure to check the editors website as what they offer will always be listed. Sometimes a good fit between designer and editor can be influenced by whether that designer can provide all the services needed.
If you are an aspiring editor yourself, where can you find training. I have listed three online courses that I’m aware of below, however, there may be more and a search of the web might be worth the effort.
- TKGA – where I got my training
- The Tech Editor Hub – both knit and crochet, as well as grading. They run live sessions so have to sign up for newsletter to know when they are available
- Cool Wool Designs – from UK, both knit and crochet
Special note: If you are a designer, indie dyer, or work in any field related to knit or crochet, and would like to be featured on the podcast, please email me at KnitDesignEdit. If you have questions or ideas for the podcast, please reach out or leave a comment. Thank you