First Crochet Pattern Writing Experience

As with many, I decided to transcribe my patterns in to a publishable format. I knew my patterns did not conform to standard formats, so decided I needed a template to dump my data into. Develop one in word and works great, do have a couple of small changes to make, but overall am pleased with the template document.

Also, found that my patterns included such instructions as "make round base, multiple of 4, 8, etc. measuring 4 inches, etc, 36, 48 stitch count (depending on pattern) or make 64 stitch rectangular base". I am sure everyone just knows this! So, made a master instruction document with the technique for each. Copy/paste into pattern document.

Also, decided needed to get a master instruction document developed for unique, special stitches such as extended stitches, front and back post stitches, herringbone stitches, etc. to copy/paste into pattern document.

Although developing these documents took time, it certainly cut down on repetitive typing for final pattern, so worth the effort and time.

Also, did some research related to yarn/thread quantity conversion (yards/ounce). Setup a spreadsheet and input information from yarn labels to calculate yards/ounce. Although my current sampling is relatively small, I have developed some interesting results. By weighing beginning yarn, finished project and ending yarn was able to establish yardage used for each project either from the yarn label or spreadsheet result. Preliminary information indicates that a "blanket" conversion will not be possible, however, a reasonable "indicator" will be. We'll see as data is developed.

As many of my hooks are "old" enough that metric measurement was not part of the size stamp, I proceeded to establish the metric sizes my hooks and found that not all hooks are created equal. My Boye steel 7 is 1.65 mm while Susan Bates steel 7 is 1.50 mm for example. This is a work in process
and will finish development as time goes on.

After all this, I did get a few patterns finished and opened a Craftsy pattern shop. Please visit JRuBee Design on Craftsy and view "Colorful Butterfly" and "Peacock Butterfly in Pastels" gift card bags/pouches as well as "Plummy Spirit" and "Diamond Spirit" bottled gift bags patterns.
Leg warmers coming up.