52 Crochet Tech Editing Tips for Designers

Welcome! You’ve just found my complete library of 52 crochet tech editing tips — one for every week of the year.

As a crochet designer, you put so much creativity into your work. But when it comes to publishing your pattern, small details like stitch counts, formatting, or abbreviations can make the difference between a smooth experience for your maker — or a confusing one. That’s where these tips come in.

I’ve pulled together 52 of my top tips from years of crochet tech editing, one for each week of the year. These bite-sized insights will help you:

• Avoid common mistakes that confuse crocheters
• Save time when preparing your patterns for submission or self-publishing
• Improve clarity and consistency in your writing
• Build confidence in your design process

Each tip is designed to give you a quick, practical win that makes your patterns clearer, more professional, and easier to follow. Whether you’re self-editing your own work or curious about what a tech editor looks for, this library is here to support you.

How to Use This Resource

• Browse by theme: Scroll down to explore tips grouped into clusters like Formatting & Layout, Math & Grading, and Gauge & Measurements.
• Dip in or follow weekly: You can read one tip at a time (just like my email and Facebook series) or binge through the full collection.
• Take action: Each tip includes a practical step you can apply to your next pattern straight away.
• NOTE This is a Work in Progress: Links will become live when the accompanying blog is published.

Explore All 52 Crochet Tech Editing Tips

📝 Pattern Formatting & Layout

• Tip #1: Review for Consistent Use of Fonts and Styles
• Tip #4: Ensure Proper Use of Notes Sections
• Tip #7: Double-Check Pattern Layout for Ease of Navigation
• Tip #9: Verify that Images and Charts Are Labeled Correctly
• Tip #21: Test for Print Friendliness
• Tip #32: Ensure Consistency in Page Numbering or Layout
• Tip #35: Use Consistent Formatting for Measurements
• Tip #41: Use Clear and Concise Language

📏 Sizing, Grading & Math

• Tip #8: Ensure Rounding of Numbers in Grading Makes Sense
• Tip #15: Ensure Consistency in Sizing Labels
• Tip #31: Check the Final Stitch Count Across Sizes
• Tip #34: Pay Attention to Yarn Quantities
• Tip #36: Align Stitch Patterns with Sizing
• Tip #46: Simplified Conversion for Grading
• Tip #49: Double-Check Math for Stitch Patterns

📐 Gauge & Measurements

• Tip #6: Ensure Gauge Swatch Instructions Are Clear
• Tip #20: Check for Clear Yarn Weight and Hook Recommendations
• Tip #42: Include Final Measurements
• Tip #44: Include Stitch Counts for Increased or Decreased Rows
• Tip #51: Test Your Pattern’s Gauge

🧵 Construction & Instructions

• Tip #3: Check the Alignment of Stitch Marker Instructions
• Tip #11: Clarify the Start of Rounds
• Tip #16: Clarify Fastening Off and Finishing Techniques
• Tip #23: Verify the Starting Chain Length
• Tip #24: Check for Clear Row/Section Transitions
• Tip #25: Clarify Turning Chains
• Tip #26: Double-Check Stitch Placement
• Tip #28: Spell Out Repeats for Clarity
• Tip #37: Clarify Join Methods
• Tip #38: Check Instructions for Seamless Construction
• Tip #52: Clarify the Use of Colour Changes

🎨 Visual Aids

• Tip #18: Include a Clear Schematic for Shaped Garments
• Tip #27: Include Diagrams for Complex Shaping
• Tip #40: Provide Photo or Video Tutorials for Complex Techniques

👥 Audience & Accessibility

• Tip #12: Test Pattern for Beginner Accessibility
• Tip #14: Review the Difficulty Rating
• Tip #29: Test the Pattern for Left-Handed Crocheters

🧶 Materials & Yarn Guidance

• Tip #2: Double-Check Hook Sizes for Different Regions
• Tip #10: Provide Tips for Yarn Management
• Tip #30: Provide Yarn Substitution Guidelines
• Tip #33: Cross-Check Materials List
• [Tip #34: Pay Attention to Yarn Quantities]

✨ Polish & Quality Checks

• Tip #5: Check for Repetitive Phrasing
• Tip #19: Proofread for Spelling and Grammar
• Tip #22: Ensure Seamless Transitions Between Colour Changes
• [Tip #39: Use Clear and Concise Language]
• Tip #45: Provide Clear Blocking Instructions

🔤 Terminology & Abbreviations

• Tip #13: Check for Consistent Terminology in Stitch Patterns
• Tip #17: Double-Check Special Notations (e.g., repeats, brackets)
• Tip #43: Check All Abbreviations
• Tip #47: Ensure Consistent Terminology
• Tip #48: Double-Check Special Stitches Instructions
• Tip #50: Use Standard Symbols for Charting

Want Even More Support?

These tips will help you self-edit your patterns with confidence — but if you’d like a professional tech editor’s eye on your work, that’s what I do best.

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