Evolution of my pattern template

My first pattern that I released for the public was the Criseyde Scarf. I designed it during a class at my then LYS and thought I might write more patterns but wasn't sure. So I used my limited graphic design skills, put together a layout, and posted the pattern on Ravelry.

Two years after that, I started designing more seriously and wanted to develop a better-looking layout. So as part of what I was looking for when I found my tech editor, I asked if she could help me come up with a pattern template. Because I used knitCompanion a lot, I wanted my pattern template to be super easy for someone to use in knitCompanion.

Almost a year later, I felt like I needed something else. Something to add some "oomph" to the layout. But I didn't really know what to do. So I left most of the layout as it was and added some colored boxes on the front page and rounded the edges of the pictures.

And then I saw what Elizabeth (from Stitch Definition) had done to the layout for the Gawain's Shield collection. It is so beautiful. I wanted that feeling for my individual patterns as well. I tried to do it myself. But I just couldn't come up with something that I was happy with. So I turned to Elizabeth and asked for her help. And she came up with a new pattern layout for me. When I saw it, I was amazed. It seemed so simple, yet she had paid attention to tiny details (such as echoing the circle in my logo) that really made the layout look amazing.

So updated all of my previous patterns with the new layout. I also took the time to polish some of my first patterns (no changes to the actual pattern but just a refinement of instructions or details here and there).

Here's a look at how my Criseyde Scarf pattern has evolved:

What do you think? Do you like the new layout?

One of the things I love most about it is that I'm now able to include the "story behind the name" section so the story that used to be available just on the Ravelry description is now on the pattern itself.

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The content in this post was first featured in my newsletter (August 20, 2015). If you'd like to keep up to date on my designs and yarn and receive content like this right in your email inbox, make sure to subscribe to my newsletter.