The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook - by Kristina McGrath & Sarah Walworth (Hardcover)

About the Book

"The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook sets new standards for clear, accurate pattern writing, walking aspiring and experienced designers alike through each must-have component of a thorough, well-written pattern, including how to devise and present gauge, charts, and sizing information that is correct and easy-to-follow"--

Book Synopsis

Take your knitting knowledge to the next level with this helpful guidebook from two professional knitting tech editors that sets much-needed standards for writing clear, accurate instructions--perfect for those interested in writing and selling original patterns.

Knitting patterns are notorious for inaccuracies in measurements and confusing directions--but no more! The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook sets new standards for clear, accurate pattern writing, walking aspiring and experienced designers alike through each must-have component of a thorough, well-written pattern, including how to devise and present gauge, charts, and sizing information that is correct and easy-to-follow. With a focus on how to make patterns accessible to contemporary knitters--especially beginning knitters--this much-needed reference book is destined to become a classic in an industry that is beginning to professionalize after decades (even centuries!) of informal and home-based instruction. With 90,000 patterns being sold annually on the popular knitting community site Ravelry, there's a burgeoning group of indie knitwear designers eager for this guidance, provided by authors Kristina McGrath and Sarah Walworth, who host a monthly live broadcast on the technical aspect of knitting design.

Review Quotes

"The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook covers all aspects of writing a good pattern, from developing a style sheet or writing instructions in a consistent manner (in text, by the schematic, or through charts), to working with a tech editor and addressing sizing issues. Clearly written and comprehensive in scope, I wish I had had this book when I began to design."--Beth Brown-Reinsel, author of Knitting Ganseys

"I wish I had this as a resource when I first started designing knitwear. The checklists for consistency when writing patterns are a necessity, and the grading information for accurate sizing over multiple silhouettes is invaluable. I plan to keep a copy in my design library... and you should too!"--Laura Nelkin of Nelkin Designs

"If there's one thing I've learned, it's to always listen to my tech editors. It's easy when everything is so well explained! The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook should be required reading for all aspiring pattern designers; not just for the technical information about laying out your patterns with consistency and clarity, but for the included question and answer sessions in each chapter, where the authors dive into all the things you've wanted to know (but were afraid to ask)!"--Hannah Thiessen Howard, Author of Slow Knitting & Seasonal Slow Knitting

"In The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook, Kristina and Sarah take the mystery out of how to write a knitting pattern. They offer new designers wise, experienced advice on how to avoid the most common designer pitfalls. This is the book I want all my tech-edit clients to read. Save yourself time, money and headaches by reading The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook before you start your next knitting pattern!"--Edie Eckman, knit and crochet designer and author

"This much needed guide is filled with industry secrets and standards, making it invaluable to new and experienced knitwear designers alike. I cannot wait to share this book with my design students!"--Safiyyah Talley, author of Knit 2 Socks in 1

About the Author

Kristina McGrath worked in the fiber arts industry as a knitting technical editor and consultant, championing designer voice, the power of consistent pattern style, and fat-positive and size-inclusive design.

She co-authored The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook with Sarah Walworth; together they created Tech Tip Talk, a platform for knitting designers with videos and resources to elevate the art of pattern writing and garment fit.

She is committed to clear and honest patterns that deliver on their promise to the knitter, which is the central focus of her work.
https: //kristinamcgrath.com/
Sarah Walworth is an expert knitting technical editor, pattern grader, and ghostwriter. She runs The Tech Editor Hub, a collaborative educational community for yarn pattern editors, and co-authored The Knitting Pattern Writing Handbook with Kristina McGrath.

Sarah is completely enamored by the endless creative potential in fiber and textiles, and she firmly believes every pattern should fit every size body and fit them well.

When not knitting, you'll find her wandering outside or on the couch with a dog, working through a large stack of books and several cups of coffee. She almost always writes in the margins.