giving thanks for good fit

Resources on knitting design are abundant. Resources on size inclusive design, thoughtful and responsible grading and pattern writing, less so. So, let’s root some out.

To start, here’s some folks’ work on size inclusivity that we can all be thankful for:

  • You’ve got to start here. Designer Jen Parroccini has a very robust blog with gobs of incredibly useful size inclusive information, regularly helping us to think critically about the patterns we knit and write and always, how to do better. Start with her Size Washing Manifesto, then move on to parts one, two, and three of Judging Patterns, to make sure you are never tricked again when you evaluate whether or not a pattern is actually size inclusive, or to see if you are designing on the right track, and learn a bit about what knitters need. Then maybe just click around! Knitters and designers alike, she’s also a consultant, if you want to run something by someone who knows.
  • After that, take a look at what Autumn Eden Goodman is doing for fat-positivity with her Size Inclusive Collective, and get your pattern on her list. Just a note of caution, not all patterns in the collective are created equal, so knitters, use your spidey-sense.
  • Buy our book. For better patterns, absolutely yes, and also resources like sizing standards, style sheet guidance, designing references, and checklists up the wazoo. Even if you don’t shop on Amazon, check out the page for lots of reviews and sneak peeks.
  • With that in your pocket, if grading responsibly and well is your goal, take a class with Julie Robinson. She has a class for grading, as well as one for design and she knows her shit. Get on her list.
  • If one-on-one works best for you, and you’re looking for personal help, reach out to Sarah Walworth, who has graded countless patterns and taught countless designers to do it thoughtfully and expertly, and offers this service.
  • Looking for someone to grade and ghostwrite your pattern? Tech editor and grader Joy Friedman offers this service. You can also find a technical editor here.
  • A legendary book for size inclusive design, for knitters and designers (including excellent bust dart guidance), Little Red in the City by Ysolda Teague (here is the ebook) - get it. Ysolda also has a free size chart you shouldn’t be without.
  • Hit me up! If you need guidance on grading or size inclusivity and wonder if you’re on the right track, I can help. Designers, bring all your questions and let’s make sure your work is inclusive and supports all knitters. Tech editors, find out how to best support your clients in being size inclusive, and how to ensure that your business is recognized as a supportive place for size inclusive designers and knitters of all sizes and shapes.

Last but not least, here is a Lucky No. 13 list (in alphabetical order) of some of my favorite indie designers that are killing it out there producing truly size inclusive garment patterns. Check them out and see how it works.

If you can’t use these resources, I hope you will pass them on to someone you know who can. Maybe you’ll forward the whole dang article to all your favorite designers and tech editors and knitters. Swoon! Sharing information with others who need it is how we all do our best work, it’s how we all shine. That's what this is all about.

Created with MailerLite