MY SERVICES
I work with both knitting and crochet patterns, offering professional support throughout the pattern development process. My services include tech-editing, grading, chart creation, schematic drawing, pattern writing (ghostwriting), and style sheet development.
Details about my rates and method of work are provided at the end of this page.
Remember that well-written patterns will be more respected by knitters and crocheters!
Want to work with me? Send me an email or fill out the form below.
Looking forward to our future cooperation!
Have you already worked with me? I’d love to hear your feedback – share your experience here!
Read testimonials from designers I’ve already worked with.
Why me?
I have been knitting and crocheting since I was very little, and a couple of years ago, I started publishing my own knitting patterns. My self-published patterns are available at Ravelry, Etsy, and Lovecrafts.
I hold a Ph.D. in metallurgy and for over 15 years I was the Technical editor and then Editor-In-Chief of a scientific journal, where I have learned the importance of well-written text.
For most of my time, I work with spreadsheets to model various processes, so the transition to grading patterns was very easy for me. The first time I crossed paths with garment grading and realized I could join my two loves for craft and spreadsheets, was when I read a series of blog posts by Sister Mountain How to Grade Knitting Patterns Using a Spreadsheet, and since then I just moved forward to Marnie Maclean’s excellent tutorials and Faina Goberstein’s Sizing Knitwear Patterns Craftsy Class, and finally, I took A Masterclass in Grading from The Tech Editor Hub.
Tech-editing
Detailed technical editing to ensure your pattern is accurate, consistent, and ready for publication.
I’m providing a comprehensive editing service, including copy editing, proofreading, and technical editing.
Editing includes checking document vs style sheet, consistency of abbreviations, capitalization, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and phrasing, making sure that materials used are included in the material list, clarity and conciseness of the instructions, checking stitch/row count, grading – fit across sizes, schematics, and making sure that written directions and charts correctly correspond to each other …
For editing, I can add notes to a PDF, use track changes in Word, or add suggestions to a Google Doc-it depends on your preferences. I am at ease editing all types of knitting or crochet patterns, from garments to accessories, and all types of stitch patterns, lace, cables, and colorwork.
It is up to you to make the changes in the pattern based on my comments.
You can see some of the patterns I’ve worked on in this Ravelry bundle and Instagram highlight.
Tech-editing
Detailed technical editing to ensure your pattern is accurate, consistent, and ready for publication.
I’m providing a comprehensive editing service, including copy editing, proofreading, and technical editing.
Editing includes checking document vs style sheet, consistency of abbreviations, capitalization, grammar, spelling, punctuation, and phrasing, making sure that materials used are included in the material list, clarity and conciseness of the instructions, checking stitch/row count, grading – fit across sizes, schematics, and making sure that written directions and charts correctly correspond to each other.
For editing, I can add notes to a PDF, use track changes in Word, or add suggestions to a Google Doc-it depends on your preferences. I am at ease editing all types of knitting or crochet patterns, from garments to accessories, and all types of stitch patterns, lace, cables, and colorwork.
It is up to you to make the changes in the pattern based on my comments.
You can see some of the patterns I’ve worked on in this Ravelry bundle and Instagram highlight.
“Great and amazing service.
Very thorough and correct, with eye for every detail.”
Tea Berček, knitwear designer and tech-editor
Grading
Thoughtful size grading that maintains fit, proportion, and design integrity across all sizes.
The main goal of pattern grading is to make sure that the garment fits the same at every size as it fits the model.
To be able to accurately grade your design I would need a complete pattern, gauge for all used stitch patterns, measurements of key points of the design, applied ease, and clear photos. If you use a specific size chart you would like us to refer to, it should be included. If you don’t have a specific size chart I’ll use the Ysolda size chart. Also, information on the size range you want us to grade your pattern in is necessary. We will be in constant communication if some other information is necessary to complete the grading process.
Derived numbers will be included in your pattern.
“It is a real pleasure to work with Marija and I can highly recommend to work with her.”
Chart Creation
Clear, easy-to-follow knitting/crochet charts created to complement written instructions and enhance readability.
For chart creation, I use Stitch Fiddle, and I also generate written directions if required. As a starting point for charts, we can use charts made in another program, hand-drawn, or from written instructions.
You should supply us with fonts and stitch symbols you prefer; on the contrary, we will use the default. Once the chart is generated, we will send you for you to check and make changes. Once the chart is completed and error-free, we will generate written directions. Charts could be sent to you in the picture format of your choice.
Schematics Drawing
Clean, precise garment schematics that clearly communicate measurements and construction.
Visual representation of a finished knitted/crocheted piece with shown all measurements, not only does it look very professional, but it will also give your customers a preview of how the finished piece will look like. I drew schematics using Adobe Illustrator, and for the development of schematics, I would need a flat-lay photo of your design, and all measurements you would like to be incorporated into the drawing. Schematics will be sent to you in any picture format you prefer.
Pattern Writing (Ghostwriting)
Professional pattern writing based on your design, capturing your voice while delivering clear instructions.
If you are not sure how to transfer your idea into a functional pattern that others can follow, I can help you with this. I can work from a sketch, or a sample you made, or I can finish the pattern you started writing. For now, I am offering to ghostwrite for accessories such as shawls, hats, mittens, cowls, and socks,…
During the ghostwriting process, we will follow your stylesheet, grade pattern in multiple sizes (if necessary), calculate yardage, make charts and schematics, as well as written directions.
Once the pattern is written, it will be tech edited by another tech editor, and only then will it be ready for testing.
An additional service I provide is drafting the pattern on Ravelry, so all that is left for you to do is publish the pattern!
“The most valuable thing is that I launched 5 patterns I never would’ve been able to write down or organize on my own..”
Style Sheet Development
Well-structured style sheets that bring consistency and clarity to your pattern collection.
I will make, together with you, a style sheet, a document that defines the way that you write everything from your pattern notes to the phrasing in your instructions. It will help your readers recognize your patterns and help you to be consistent in your pattern writing.
“Working with Maria is always a pleasure because she has a lot of knowledge in this field and a high level of professionalism.”
Rates and Pricing for Pattern Services
My rate for all knitting and crochet pattern services is €30 per hour, billed in 15-minute increments. This rate applies to all services listed above.
A 25% discount is available for first-time clients, and a 20% discount is offered when purchasing three or more services as part of the same project.
A detailed estimate will be provided after I review your pattern. I typically respond within one business day. Once you confirm the estimate, work will begin. After the service is completed, an invoice will be sent via PayPal, with payment due within 15 days.
Request an Estimate or Ask a Question
Files are reviewed confidentially and used only to prepare your estimate.