Tech Editing Course
Do you want to be a tech editor? You think you have what it takes? Well you’re in the right spot because I’m going to be offering a course that will get you started on that path.
First though, let’s clarify what this course won’t be about:
- I cannot teach you to have an eye for detail. If you can’t spot the difference between
Row 1: *K2, p2, rep from * to end.
and
Row 1: *K2, p2; rep from * to end.
then this course is not for you.
- I will not teach you the math skills necessary to be a TE. You must come to the course with basic understanding of algebra and geometry. You should be comfortable with using a spreadsheet, it comes in very handy.
- I will not teach you the knitting skills necessary to be a TE. Part of being a tech editor is having a wealth of knowledge about your craft. You need to know the techniques being used in the patterns you are editing. If you don’t get on with charts or don’t know what a raglan sleeve is, then I can’t help you. Also note: I am a knitter and I only tech edit knitting patterns and I will only be teaching with reference to knitting patterns. Crochet tech editing is a whole other barrel of worms and not one we will be diving into.
- I will not be providing any magic shortcuts. You must put in the time and effort — a couple of hours a week. There will be assignments due each week and I expect them to be on time. Working to a deadline is a major part of being a TE and if you can’t do this then don’t sign up.
What I will teach you in a nutshell:
- How to use a style sheet and check that a pattern conforms.
- Basic pattern checks — the first things you should go through when you get a pattern and how to check accessories.
- Advanced checks — how to check garments, socks, lace shawls, charts, etc.
- Tech-etiquette — covering things like how to make your edits and relay them to the designer, how long should edits take, what might you want to charge for an hourly rate, etc.
I expect a lot of you to take this course and think “that was fun but tech editing is NOT for me”. Tech Editing is math intensive, a lot of hard work, a lot of pressure. If you mess up, it’s harmful to the designer. You’ve let that designer down in a big way. Tech editing is not for everyone!
But if you complete the course and both of us feel you might be good at it, then there is the chance to come on as my apprentice so to speak. The details would need to be worked out between us and any designers who agreed to work with you. But you would be able to work under my supervision, and learn a bit more about the process. When I feel you’re ready, I would be happy to give you a reference and send you out into the wild.
I want to make that last point clear. Just because you completed the course does not mean you can go out and call yourself a tech editor. I won’t give you a reference. The course is the equivalent of reading about something in a book. It’s giving you the foundation to move on and be able to try it hands-on. I want to supervise the hands-on bit for a while before signing off on you. But that opportunity will be there for anyone who wants it.
I will take on 8 students for the first run at a discounted rate. Course will done via email (since this is how you will communicate with clients I think it makes the most sense) and I will have certain hours each week when I will be available to chat and answer questions.
Materials needed: Pen, paper, calculator, spreadsheet program (check out libreoffice for free version)
Time: A 7 or 8 week course, dependent on particular needs of students
Sign-ups are here: Sign-ups
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