Curious as to how a tech editor fits into the pattern design process?

Note:  I normally receive a copy for editing once it is in the testing phase.

• I print the pattern and tape it together as instructed.
• I read through the directions to check the instructional flow & sequence.  (Does it make sense? Is there another technique that would work better? Does the designer need to add/delete certain things to make the instructions clear? Should the construction sequence be modified?)
• I compare listed cut pieces with any diagrams and again for inclusion in the sewing instructions.
• I check captions and labeling on diagrams.
• I check to see that photos and illustrations are in the correct places (or that there’s no placeholder awaiting a final photo/illustration).
• I check math calculations, including yardage requirements, cut dimensions and overall project size.
• I edit for grammar, clarity and consistency in writing style.
• Sometimes, I have to make a block. This is usually when I suspect a math/instructional error that I can’t pinpoint by simply reviewing it on paper.
• I set the edited pattern aside for a day or two.
• I markup the pdf copy in Adobe, confirm I transferred the edits from my paper copy to the electronic one and then send the marked up electronic file back to the designer.

Total time? 2-3 hours.  (Psst: I’ve also reviewed your pattern at least twice.)

Lead time:  2 weeks

All of my clients are repeat clients, if this gives any indication regarding the quality of my work.

The first quarter 2020 is starting to fill up, so if you need tech editing services early next year, please get on my schedule NOW.

It’s possible!

Since we no longer do clubs at school, I re-homed three sewing machines and gifted fabric & notions to co-workers. The remainder of the fabric & notions came home and were promptly shoved in a closet until I had time to deal with it later.  This was mid-September. 

I was avoiding my studio. Time to take action.

“Later” became yesterday and today.  I needed something from the closet…and it kind of morphed into an organizing marathon. I spent several hours consolidating, sorting and refining my fabric/notions stash.  Two big bins of fabric are in my SUV ready to be dispersed at school tomorrow.  All of the “kid sewing” materials are in a single location. All the precuts are grouped together and in one designated spot.  You can actually see the floor of the hall closet now!  I purged the last of the “gifted” fabric and stuff I’d brought with me to this house 6-1/2 years ago.  The trash bin is full.

All of the PIGS (projects in grocery sacks) that I plan to complete are in bins ready to go.  Can you believe I had 8 tote bags full of STUFF?  This was almost as bad as when I cleaned up my sewing room after I finished graduate school and found 7 rotary cutters!!! All of the kits I purchased on previous vacations are now where I can easily view them when I open my closet door. Excess office supplies are going to school.

While I feel as if a big weight has been lifted, there’s still much work to do. Blame it on my new-found minimalist tendencies. Unless I’m going to use the item,  it adds value to sewing or it brings me joy – out it goes. Downsizing the stash will be an ongoing process – one drawer, one bin and one shelf at a time. Put it this way, I will not be purchasing any fabric, notions or quilting magazines during the first half of 2020!