I think it is better to have more rather than less, and I like text as well as videos. Videos are great for learning, but text helps when you've forgotten bits 😄 For those printing out patterns, you can also just print out the relevant pages for your size. One pattern I recently bought had various pdfs to download, so you could have glossary/instructions/videos links etc seperate to the actual pattern. So it gives people the option to download exactly what they want.
Hi Becky - that's an interesting suggestion and someone else has said similar, I never thought of getting 2 different PDF files when you purchase a pattern, I always assumed it all had to be in one....
I just finished a blanket with 15 mm needles, took me five days and it is about 4' wide. I'd stick with the width you have so that you get a good length, it'll stretch out. Your cardigan design is lovely. As to a long pattern, my major irritant is having to print out pictures that are on the same page as the instructions - so wasteful of ink and paper. That you have taken the time to include instructions for the various techniques is really considerate. I know some designers expect a certain level of capability so that they don't have to hold a knitter's hand all the time. If you have page breaks after the technique pages, that is helpful. I find I just x-out the instructions that don't apply to me so that I don't "harp up the wrong tree". I made Pipit by Heidi Kirrmaier not long ago and she uses a chart system to specify what to do on which row for the various sizes (only seven sizes though) - that method is quite clear. But you are the designer, you get to choose what to include in your patterns!
Thank you, really interesting to read everyone's opinions, and you're right it is down to me ultimately! yes definitely, lots of page breaks so you have that option of just not printing certain pages
Love the first cardigan 😍 Especially in that colour with those spotty buttons! I think tbh when it comes to the pattern your knitting group is so right. You can’t please everyone and the best option is just to stay true to you. What pattern do you want to produce? If you want to produce a pattern that is super detailed and 30 pages long then go for it! Just means you become known as the designer who produces really in-depth patterns and that is no bad thing ❤️
For pattern organization, I tend to print patterns, and will look through and decide which pages to print. So keeping the helpful info consolidated onto a set of continuous pages would be great. I do like to have reminders like M1R/M1L bc I always forget which is which, but I wouldn't need extensive detail on that or videos taking up full pages. Maybe have some helpful links at the end? Though I think people can easily google common techniques. I really like the design layouts of Jacqueline Cieslak and Andrea Mowry if that's helpful to reference.
Thank you Casey that's great to have that feedback - yes I definitely think making a clear separation between 'the pattern' and 'useful info/techniques' is key
I do get a little overwhelmed when a pattern is long BUT as I work my way through it, I find it super helpful if everything is explained, for if I don't know how to do something, or I'm just having a tired day! It's your pattern Lizzie, you get to decide! So excited for the first cardigan release 😊
Hi Lizzy. I always enjoy visiting with you via your podcasts. On your question about your patterns and how much info you include? My opinion is that you need to be true to you and what you feel is best. It’s so easy to get caught up in what others want that you loose sight of what you are most comfortable with. I’m also a pattern designer and for me, I write in the way that I personally like to read patterns. If you do the same, you will find your “tribe/following” and you will always feel great about what you put out. If you are happier including all of the information then keep it, if it would be overwhelming for you (as an outsider) to follow then trim it down. I hope that makes sense. Just trust your intuition and you’ll create patterns that you can stand behind. I LOVE your The First Cardigan and how it turned out! It’s absolutely perfect! On the blanket, again, trust your gut. If you think it’s going to be too narrow then rip back and add width. I’ve never been disappointed with frogging and re-doing something when I’m unsure. You will be happier with the end result and it just gives you that much more time to enjoy working with whatever beautiful yarn you happen to be working with at the time. No rush necessary. 😉 Thanks for the podcast suggestion. See you again soon my friend. 🥰
As a new knitter I prefer as much detail as possible in patterns, I find the more basic patterns confusing at times. Written explanation + RU-vid links work well for me personally ❤️
Regarding pattern thoroughness versus briefness… I prefer the thoroughness…. The more information the better. I have recently seen patterns with multiple PDFs that come with the digital purchase…. Break out techniques, different / similar sizes. I also have seen a few patterns lately that show the pattern instructions, repeats and counts in a table format which I have found to be very simple (see the After the Rain pattern by Heidi Kirrmair if you are interested in seeing a sample… it was a simple sweater, but was one of the easiest I have recently worked with). At the end of the day, like I said above, I’d prefer all the instructions and can weed out what I don’t need. I just appreciate all the designers work and I as a knitter appreciate all that I am given to help me be successful. BTW, the sweater looks beautiful!
Just listening to you about the pattern - even though I tend to print patterns - I feel that any information about the pattern is valid, it also makes it inclusive. As your group says you can't please everyone. I would go with your gut feeling - how would you like to read a pattern? Think of being a beginner etc. Experienced knitters may take some instructions for granted but not everyone is like that. P.s. loving your podcasts
Hi Lizzie, I would not start again with your blanket as you will probably find once you take it off the needles it will be a lot wider and stretch out. This is what I have found with big needles and yarn in the past. Thanks for another lovely podcast 😀
Hi Lizzie ! About the pattern lenght, I really really liked the lenght of the First Sweater pattern, it makes it really understandable even for a beginner. I think you did an amazing job ! I really appreciated all the details, all the informations about the techniques - both written and video links - because it means I don't have to search them myself on the Internet 😅 (but I would definitely do it if they weren't there). And even when you know certain techniques, it is alwalys nice to have a reminder somewhere just in case ^^ The pattern is also all clear and well-organised, so you don't lose yourself in it. And I don't print it, I just read it on my computer screen, so I really don't mind a lot of pages.
Personally I love a long pattern being new to garment knitting . The more information the better it’s great that there will be links to videos. I’ve just abandoned a crochet top because of the lack of detail and I’m quite experienced in crochet. I was so frustrated not to mention waste of time/ money. I look forward to seeing/ trying your patterns. Xx
As an experienced knitter I prefer short patterns, but a link to detailed explanations either at the end of the pattern in a sort of glossary, or to RU-vid videos would cater for everyone!
On the pattern questions - I've had patterns that will include elaboration on stitches (like M1R/M1L) in the stitch glossary vs within the text, which has worked well for me. I love a detailed pattern, but large blocks of text can make my brain turn to static (ie. Petite Knit patterns). For pattern length, I think it's better to have more detail than less, and those printing the pattern can also always print 2 to a page or something. One thing I would consider - the Rumble Raglan pattern by Lydia Morrow has very different raglan increases for each size, and she actually has a table in the pattern that lists out and color codes the increases that would be needed for each row, so knitters can follow along and cross out the row they're on while they're on it. That pattern is also super long, but I think it's worth noting that it was done to include a ton of instruction on proper fit as well as to offer multiple options to read the pattern for accessibility for those who have trouble with text patterns. TLDR: I'd much rather have a long pattern with more instruction and get the fit that I want than get a short pattern that I'm disappointed with in the end.
Great ep, always enjoy your videos :). Your first cardigan is SO lovely!! The buttons are perfect too. For pattern length I feel like it wouldn't deter me, also the more detailed you are the less pattern/support and questions you'll have on the back end hopefully. I always say do what's best for you!
Definitely team details, too, but I know it can be overwhelming or confusing with many sizes in one. I sometimes print patterns and sometimes do it via pdf/screenshots on my phone. What I've seen with particularly charted patterns (and print sewing patterns) it may be worth just creating two (or more) different files with different sizes if that reduces the amount of pages. That way people could selectively print for their size and it wouldn't be too "cluttered". In regard to the instructions, I'd do them in a glossary, so again it can be decided if it's worth printing. You seem to have put so much work and effort in already, so definitely don't cut out any of that! Also, I'm just done with the raglan increases on the single malt for my partner. I'm using the suggested yarn for the first time ever after I made the last jumper for him in cheap drops merino (so soft though!). Yours/Pete's will look so lovely in the green 😍
I like when a pattern includes details. I use KnitCompanion, so no printing necessary. Currently working on The Moon Glade Tee by Kelly at RowRowAnd Kades. I'm almost through the stockinette body and soon onto the lace at the bottom! 😍 I can't wait to wear it!!
I like the idea of having the break down of techniques. I haven’t seen the original so I’m not sure on your layout. But I do like when patterns keep the “how to” portions and notes all separate from the pattern itself. And just include a small note of see techniques section or see notes. Etc. Then if I do print the pattern I can print the pattern and just reference the notes etc as needed. I’ve even seen some include print suggestions for different sizes. Hope that helps! 😊 Although now I’m worried I may have given you more to think on 😬
Hi Hannah - that's really useful feedback thank you! Yes I agree re: keeping 'the pattern' separate from 'useful info/techniques' so that people can filter out/print just the bits they want
I've just finished knitting White Mountains by Midori Hirose and they have 11/12 sizes total. It's a lengthy and incredibly helpful pattern. Probably good for a reference as they split into sections and then into sizes. I don't usually print patterns, however this time I printed out the increase section for my size so I could reference stitches. Like you said, can't please everyone, however people will use the pattern however it suits them best! I wish you all the luck 🤗
On the pattern length - I don’t love when a pattern is extremely lengthy, but it doesn’t deter me from knitting it and I wouldn’t steer someone away from a lengthy and detailed pattern. I very much enjoyed knitting the first sweater and am planning on knitting the first cardigan too :) I’m working on some knitted French knickers for a pig toy for my daughter, lol
Hi Lizzie Don’t worry about any of it. I expect we will all do with the pattern what we need to. I’m sure we are happier to have more than not enough. We are just looking forward to being able to get hold of it! I personally would love to be a test knitter which I’ve not done before. Kindest regards Sharon from Dorset
i knit the first sweater when you released it and i LOVE the way the pattern is written! i raved about it to just about anyone who would listen. i’m not a new knitter, but i still love when patterns are detailed because it gives me confidence that what i’m doing is for sure correct and it keeps me wanting to work on the project more. i always read the pattern all the way through before printing or casting on the project, and i’d rather just omit some pages while printing than potentially have numerous knitters frustrated and confused and maybe even discouraged from these projects altogether :( blocks of text make my brain shut down but to eliminate that problem i always highlight every other line on a page and put a sticky note underneath the paragraph or section i’m working on to make it easier to look back and forth from the pattern to the project in conclusion, i personally think more info is better! take your time with your pattern release and don’t forget to knit on things you enjoy without outside forces pressuring you. you don’t owe us anything and i’m personally grateful for all the work you’ve put in so far! lovely podcast as always and please remember to take care of yourself🙂😌
Thank you so much for taking the time to write such kind words about the pattern!! it means a lot. you're right, if its in the pattern people can choose to ignore it but if it's not it isn't helping those who may want explanations. thanks again for your kind words
A simple fix for your aux cord issue is to buy an adaptor which will allow you to use a larger aux with a smaller or vise versa. They’re not usually very expensive.
Hi Zoe - completely agree, I suppose it depends what kind of learner you re but I personally understand video instructions a lot better than I do just reading a description
@@HiveKnitsNatters I hope to use encore by Plymouth yarns. It is a acrylic wool blend. My husband Ike’s it. There is a kal going for the designers sweaters.
Thanks Lizzie for a fun video. I knitted on the Cargill sweater (test knit for Rebecca - from Crea Bea) while listening to you natter. Just have the bottom band to do. I’m an experienced knitter so short concise patterns are no problem for me. However I quite like a very comprehensive pattern that includes a guide to the techniques used and explains the intricacies of the design. These inclusions also help knitters of all levels to have confidence to try a pattern that expands their skills. Perhaps in the layout design the pattern and explanations can be differentiated to allow people just read/print the pattern if wanted, but my vote would be to include all the details that you think necessary.
Oh the Cargill is a beautiful design. Thank you, yes I agree re: separating 'the pattern' from 'useful info/techniques' so that people can pick and choose what they want to print off
The Zinc Blanket is just a throw which is pretty typical (and super frustrating) of designers anymore. I wish we were given a choice on sizes. I feel like it’s just a way to get a pattern out. Some patterns are easy to make bigger for the average pattern buyer but some are not and that is super frustrating. I love that you are being so inclusive with your patterns. That baby sweater is so stinking cute!!! ❤️
Thank you Catherine! I suppose we can use the size/dimensions given as a recommendation and change if we want...but that does take a little more work/planning!
I don't mind when a pattern is lengthy at all. I don't usually print them out tho. I'm currently doing the nurture bralette and that one has a "print these pages" section on the intro page. That would be helpful, I think. As I go along I'm actually making/copy pasting a google sheet as well with the instructions for my size so next time it will be a lot easier for me.
I don’t typically mind if the pattern has a lot of pages since I do use digital versions almost 100% of the time! I have seen on ravelry where there are multiple pdf options for sizes 1-5 and then 6-9 for example so there isn’t as much to weed through for your specific size. When having longer patterns, it is helpful to say “for sizes blah blah blah, skip to page #” to make it easier to move past unnecessary info!
I don't know, I think 30 pages is quite long for a pattern that's a raglan or not charted, for example. It wouldn't necessarily deter me but you often don't know before you buy a pattern anyway! I usually prefer techniques to be linked or to have things like M1R very briefly explained in the glossary of abbreviations.
I would say as long as a pattern is formatted clearly it doesn't bother me how long it is 🙂 If I don't want all the pages to refer to while knitting I just don't print them, but I love having extra tips to make the garment as nice as possible I suppose a compromise (but more work for you sadly) would be to offer an optional PDF for each size
First of all, I also have issues with icord straps and growing with wear, so i think it´s common. For your pattern question, you can´t please anyone, I like it when techniques are explained like in the beginning of the patteen, then you can decide if you need them printed or not
Hiya, interesting re: the icord straps, I have heard its a common issue. it's always so tricky to know where to stop! you're right I can't please everyone....that's the conclusion I'm slowly coming to reading all these lovely comments haha
Re the pattern: I think there's definitely no harm in keeping in all the info! My personal preference would be to have the techniques in a separate section that knitters can refer to if they want to (side note that Lara @theknittingbooth did this in her Hemingway Shorts pattern and included links, so anyone using the pattern on a device can very quickly find the relevant technique in the pattern!). And same with pictures - I love seeing them and where they're helpful to explain they should be within the pattern, e.g. where it's of a particular technique, but general pics are better at the start and end for reference (again just my opinion!).
As a new knitter, I prefer patterns with instructions (even if brief) for basic techniques as they might be new to me. I think as long as the start of the actual pattern is obvious, and the separation between each sizes’ section is clear, it should be fine.
I like short patterns, like the ones that you see in rowan. I get easily overwhelmed and confused with long patterns. So I, personally, would prefer to see the whole pattern in one chunk, and the whole information about blocking-techniques-etc. as another chunk towards the end. In that case if I need something- I can look it up, but other than that I won’t need it
About the pattern length, I've heard a week ago of someone who uploads 2 files for their pattern: a beginner pattern with all the explanations of the different techniques, and an intermediate pattern with just the instructions. That way, if you don't really need all the information, you can easily print out the pattern with only the necessary parts.
If you are formatting the test knit into size bands, maybe you could make the pattern shorter with a few size banded pdfs. One PDF for sizes 1-3, another for size 4-6, etc. That way all the info is included but the pattern might appear shorter?
On pattern opinion…is it possible to break the PDF downloads on Ravelry down by sizes? I know you can by language and kids vs adult…so maybe that could be a possibility. I don’t think you have to FULLY explain M1L but just put M1L-make one left by picking up the bar between stitches from front to back and knitting through the back loop….on the abbreviations section. And by sizes I mean like 1-4 5-8…not each individual size…
I thought about the length of the pattern and it wouldn’t put me off but it may irritate me if I lose track… you could make two pdfs in one pattern so u only download the one with your size But I support you however you decide ❤️❤️ thank you for your work
Hi Re the length of the pattern, I try not to print all the pages if i can avoid it, I will go thru the pattern and note down what pages i really need in print, and don't print them if i can avoid it. I would not be printing the test knitters pics. If the detailed techniques could be referred to and placed on a separate page at the end so that those who don't need them don't need to print them. Please would you include a footer with the name of the pattern and a page number. one more thing if you keep photos to pages with no inscructions that helps save the trees.
Put instructions for each size blocked together to make it easier to print just the size a person needs. Put instructions for extra stuff together if you don’t want to deal with the extras. That is the con side of having SOOOO many sizes for patterns.
True! I would rather be fully size inclusive and have a longer pattern that people can pick and choose the bits they want I think, than a pattern that doesn't cater for everyone (or as close to everyone as we can get)
Hi Ellen, thank you so much for watching - it's an option but I worry that then limits someone purchasing the pattern and using it multiple times, eg a size 4 for a gift and a size 10 for them....
@@HiveKnitsNatters Yep! I love it when designers do that. It makes it easier to download larger files as well, and that way it's easier to print just the parts you need.
