What Does a Knitting Pattern Tech Editor Do—And Do You Need One?

Written By Anaïs Peltier

If you’re a knitwear designer looking to publish your patterns, you've likely heard the term tech editor floating around the knitting world. But what exactly does a tech editor do, and how can they help improve your patterns?

In this post, we'll break down what a knitting pattern tech editor is, how they support designers, and why working with one could be the best thing you do for your brand.

Desk with books on it, someone holding a cup of tea.

What Is a Tech Editor?

A technical editor, or tech editor for short, is someone who reviews knitting patterns before they’re published. Their job is to ensure that a pattern is:

  • Accurate (no stitch count or math errors)

  • Consistent (style, formatting, and terminology are used correctly)

  • Clear (instructions are understandable for the intended skill level)

  • Complete (all materials, tools, sizing, and abbreviations are included)

Unlike test knitters, who follow the pattern and give feedback from a knitter’s point of view, tech editors look at the pattern from a technical and editorial perspective, catching issues before they cause confusion.


Why You Need a Tech Editor for Your Knitting Pattern

If you're designing a pattern, you're juggling creativity, grading, formatting, and self-promotion. A knitting tech editor is your second set of eyes. Here's why that's essential:

  • Avoid frustrating your knitters. Errors or unclear instructions can lead to confusion or even project abandonment.

  • Save time and protect your reputation. Tech editors help you publish polished, professional patterns that knitters trust.

  • Focus on designing. Let a tech editor handle the details so you can do what you love—design beautiful knits.


What Does a Knitting Tech Editor Check?

A professional tech editor goes through the pattern carefully to check for:

  • Stitch counts, shaping math, and gauge calculations

  • Measurement consistency across sizes

  • Terminology, abbreviation, and punctuation use

  • Matching between charts and written instructions

  • Style guide alignment (if you have one or need help creating one)

They also ensure the pattern is accessible to knitters at the intended skill level and make suggestions if anything seems unclear or confusing.


How I Can Help You

I’m Anaïs, a certified knitting pattern tech editor and the creator of Purlfection. I work with independent designers to ensure their patterns are clean, correct, and easy to follow—whether it's a quick one-skein accessory or a multi-size garment.

I also offer:

  • Charting services for lace, cables, and more

  • Pattern translation between English and German

With my technical background and love of detail, I’m here to help bring your pattern one step closer to purlfection.


Ready to Work Together?

Whether you’re publishing your first pattern or your fiftieth, having a tech editor is one of the best investments you can make in your knitting business.

👉 DM me on Instagram or email me at hello@purlfection.com to get started.

Anaïs Peltier