7 Things a Great Knitting Pattern Will Have
Knitting & crochet patterns can often be overwhelming. They vary significantly from designer to designer, and it's hard to know which ones you can trust to include the information you need to get the desired result.
One of my biggest pet peeves is patterns that make you do extra math - ever read “increase 6 stitches evenly across the row?"
No thanks.
Your life is already too busy and too complex. Your knitting and crochet patterns should be straightforward, tech-edited, tested, and complete with helpful tips to help you create something you'll enjoy making and treasure wearing.
Here are 7 key components a great knitting or crochet pattern will have.
1| Skill Level
Often overlooked, understanding the skills needed to complete the project is key to enjoying the process. Don't be surprised by techniques you don't know, and make a conscious choice about whether or not this is the pattern where you want to learn them. If not, that's okay! Try a different pattern first, and then come back when you're ready.
2| Measurements & Schematic
Read these sections thoroughly and compare the measurements with your body's measurements. Understanding how the pattern is designed to fit before you start will empower you to make mods where needed or even forgo the pattern entirely if it doesn't suit your size and shape.
3| Yarn Information
Patterns should include yardage and fiber content information *at a minimum*. Better yet, they'll include notes for substitution to create a similar look with a different yarn. If you're making mods to the pattern, you'll need to adjust your yardage requirements. Some designers (like me) can help you calculate this.
4| Gauge
This one seems obvious, but you'd be surprised how many knitters and crocheters skip the gauge swatching process and just start with the recommended yarn and needle size. While you might get lucky and get gauge, you usually won't. Take the time to get gauge.
5| Needles
Rather than focusing on the suggested needle size, I focus on the *type* of needle that is being recommended. Straight, circular, and DPNs can all be used for different purposes throughout the project. Understand which kinds of needles you'll need and why.
6| Stitch Patterns
More pattern designers are including stitch pattern information before you purchase a pattern so that you can swatch and determine how to get the look you want.
7| Contact Information
This is another sneaky one, but I like to look where I can reach out for help if I run into an issue with the pattern. Speaking as a pattern designer, please try to do a Google search first for any terminology or techniques you're unfamiliar with. But if you've found an error, please send those our way! Despite hours of sample knitting, tech editing, and test knitting, you'd be surprised what can still sneak through!
See these instructions in action
Did you know that all KJD patterns include a free PDF download with all the necessary information before buying and casting on? This way, you’ll know that the pattern is right for you, your body, and your lifestyle.
Check out these patterns to see what I mean!
