Pattern Instructions

Building the pattern instructions is a meticulous exercise.  I use the basic structure of my pattern manuscript for this process.  Following the creation of the project from raw materials through to completion - the instructions need to shadow all actions taken during construction, in order to convey to the reader how to do the same thing.  Everything is documented in detail, the old fashioned way with pencil & paper:

- choice of fabrics & stablizers, measurement of each (length & width), possible alternates
- selection of embellishments (trims, beads, etc), identification of each one used, its length, size or quantity
- each tool used is catalogued
- every single step required to construct the project is written down
- photos are taken at every step along the way for inclusion in the pattern instructions
- certain steps simply do not show well in a photo so detailed diagrams must be drawn to supplement the written instruction

All the recorded information is then typed up, photos are re-sized & checked for clarity, supplementary diagrams drawn, various layouts (cutting, page, pattern assembly) included.  All of these elements are "stitched" together to form a PDF file.  The draft is printed & proofed before publication.

This is a rather time consuming process, particularly logging each step & photo taking.  If only it could be done as quickly as describing it...