Keeping in mind that we are talking about the tasks that support the designer, most people do not realize there is a huge difference between creating a design and writing the instructions.
In fact, often times the original designer does not make any more than a swatch or a block before the project is handed off to the Pattern Writer.
Who is the Pattern Writer? It can be the designer (and sometimes that is where the process starts) or it can be someone handed a finished item, and asked to “reverse engineer” the project. Or my personal favorite is to start with the Designer Notes & The Garment and “go from there”. Or it can be just the concept, crocquis and swatch/block.
What is the primary responsibility of the Pattern Writer? It is the job of the pattern writer to ensure that the list of steps, and the explanation of each step is written in a clear concise manner, using standard abbreviations where ever possible according to the format dictated by the publisher.
What are the requirements to be a pattern writer? That’s pretty simple, whatever the craft or type of needlework. you must:
- well grounded in the technique and tools,
- have the ability to pay extreme attention to detail.
- need to be something of a perfectionist
- be able to balance perfection with deadline orientation
For those writing for garments, you really need to know how to do sizing, because it is not just about adding inches.
And the Golden Rule?
The work you produce must enable the average consumer to complete the project without undue heartache.
Your comments and questions are welcomed.
Wheat
P.S. To read more posts in this series, select the category
It Is All Just Business
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