TKGA-Certified Technical Editor

Clear instructions.
Reliable numbers.
Quality patterns.

CAROL M. YEH · VIRGINIA, USA · RAVELRY: CMYEHKNITS

Tech editing combines my love of numbers, words, and (of course) knitting.I edit knitting patterns with careful attention to the designer’s vision balanced with clear language and accurate numbers.

I’m a TKGA-certified tech editor with sample- and test-knitting experience across garments, socks, shawls, and other accessories. A self-taught knitter, I have completed Suzanne Bryan’s Knitting Boot Camp (Levels 1-3) and have had my sample knits featured in patterns and advertisements by well-known knitwear designers. I pair my craft knowledge with a science and writing background well suited to both the numbers and narrative of knitting patterns.Before I specialized in tech editing, I spent nearly twenty years writing and editing technical manuals, accreditation reports, grants, and doctoral dissertations for nonprofit, healthcare, and higher-education clients. Most of my work is in the disability space, including Deafness, blindness, and neurodivergence. My combined life and work experience means I bring unique perspectives to my work with a special focus on inclusion for all.

What's in a Name?

Penta-C: The Five C's

Penta-C derives from the Greek prefix for “five.” The Five C’s are the values that guide my work.

01

Consistency

I show up for the work, and I get it done when I say I'm going to get it done.

02

Communication

Solid partnerships rely on open, clear, two-way communication. I value regular updates and feedback so we both know what’s working and what needs improvement.

03

Character

You can teach skills, but you can’t teach attitude. I bring a highly principled work ethic to each job: Every project receives my full commitment, and every client is treated with care and respect. And yes, character is also a nod to the actual editing of letters, numbers, and punctuation!

04

Client-Focus

When I work with a client, my top priority is making sure everything I do supports your success.

05

Confidence

I structure my processes so clients can be confident that the final product is completed to the highest standards.

Services

What I Offer

Versatile writing and editing beyond numbers and words

Basic tech editing — $30/hour with ½-hour minimum

I edit knitting patterns to ensure each instruction is clear and that numbers given make sense. Basic tech editing also includes confirming that the pattern layout matches the designer’s style guide, stitch and row/round counts align with schematic dimensions, and charts match their written instructions and vice versa.
I’m sorry, but I do not offer crochet tech editing at this time.

Add-on services

I can provide additional services, such as:
Writing romance copy: $15 flat fee.
Developing a style guide: $25 flat fee.
Converting charts to written instructions and vice-versa: $30/hour
Grading patterns: $30/hour
Ghost-writing patterns: $30/hour

Non-pattern editing: $30/hour

Have you written a knitting-related article for a publication? I can edit the article for you to ensure the information is clear and accurate.

Non-knitting editing/writing: Contact for a quote

I am still active in the world of freelance writing and editing. Got an annual report, grant application, or accreditation self-study? I have two decades of experience in higher education and nonprofits.

Sample knitting: Contact for a quote

I frequently knit samples for indie yarn dyers and knitwear designers. Click to view my Ravelry portfolio featuring my sample and test knits.

Process

How I Run Projects

What to expect when you work with me

01

Initial Contact

Once you send me your draft, I’ll confirm receipt within 24 hours to provide an estimate, collect “your druthers,” and share my working terms. Once you agree to the working terms, we can hammer out a timeline for your project.

02

How long will it take?

I typically gauge pattern complexity by considering (a) the type of finished object and (b) the length of the pattern.In general, the more complicated the project and/or the longer the pattern, the longer it will take. Stitch patterns, cables, lace, and specialized knitting techniques (e.g., brioche, double-knitting, etc.) require more time. Also, the larger the size range, the longer the job.Here are some rough guidelines on how long different types of projects might take:
Hats, shawlettes, scarves, and other simple accessories: 1-3 hours
Socks and mitts: 2-4 hours
Shawls and cowls: 3-5 hours
Garments: 4+ hoursI make at least two editorial passes (often more!) for each pattern before sending it back to you for review.

03

Crossing the finish line

We can revise a pattern as many times as you need until you feel it’s ready. If you are running a test knit and I have tech edited the pattern, I offer a complimentary 30-minute proofread of the pattern after testing.

About

Carol M. Yeh

Knitting Pattern Technical Editor & Writer
Virginia, USA · [email protected] · Ravelry: cmyehknits

Credentials

  • Technical Editing Certification — The Knitting Guild Association (TKGA) — 2026

  • M.A., Marketing — University of Maryland Global Campus — 1996

  • B.A., Chemistry — Yale University — 1992

I taught myself to knit in 2018 using Michelle Hunter’s Building Blocks. (It’s a fantastic way to learn!) After discovering knitting, I quickly jumped into customizing garments to fit my measurements, mostly by reading Amy Herzog’s Ultimate Sweater Book and watching the wealth of knitting videos available on YouTube. These days, you can usually find me on Ravelry as cmyehknits. I love talking about knitting and all its intricacies with fellow enthusiasts.Beyond knitting, I have worked as a freelance writer and editor in the higher education and nonprofit sectors. I spent 5 years as a writer/editor in the Office of the President at Gallaudet University where I edited high-level reports (which included data tables) that were integral to the University’s operations. In 2020, I became a volunteer grant writer for STEP VA, a nonprofit that serves people with disabilities by providing them with performing and fine arts experiences coupled with sensory regulation and therapy techniques. During my 5-year tenure as lead grant writer, I managed to secure 15 out of 21 grants, totaling over $75,000.Most days, my motto is “If I sits, I knits.” When I’m not sitting or knitting, I am co-directing the Fredericksburg region’s first and only All-Abilities Choir where the majority of singers are youth and young adults with disabilities. I’m also a homeschool mom with one kid in college and one kid ready to graduate high school.

Contact

Let's get your pattern published!

Send me your pattern, and I'll follow up shortly.