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Have you created a new cross-stitch design? Maybe you have come up with a crocheted cardigan totally by yourself. On the other hand, it could be a brand new look for a nursery in plastic canvas. Whatever the method, crochet, knitting, painting, etc., if you have created a design that is new, unique and totally your own, you can possibly sell it to a magazine or craft publication for some extra cash. The thrill of seeing your name in print is always nice too.
There is one main rule to follow when designing craft patterns:
Originality
Borrowing a part of one pattern, incorporating another from this one and adding a third element from yet another pattern is not designing. Designing literally means ‘to conceive’, which in turn means ‘to form an idea’.
When designing or making a pattern, be precise. Keep a notebook nearby and detail each step along the way. When forming a pattern, no detail is too small. Never assume that someone will just know a step. Not everyone following a pattern knows the basics. Readers of your design will vary from the novice to the experienced. Keep the novice in mind when writing a pattern. Keep track of amounts used and specific types of the items used. For example, if making a crocheted baby blanket, list the needle size, yarn weight, brand, and number of skeins used. If a color change is required, be detailed in the pattern on where color change will need to take place. Depending on the magazine or company itself, these details can also include instructions for the basics of the craft. Once you have done all this, you will need a market for your design.
Have you browsed the shelves of a bookstore lately? There are magazines for every craft subject imaginable. Some of these publications deal solely with in house artists. Most of them though, buy patterns from the readers of the publication itself. Some will list specific guidelines in the magazines to those who wish to submit an idea or pattern. Some of these publish only patterns from subscribers and readers. For those that do not, it is still possible to sell to them. Looking inside the magazine on the content page will reward you with all the contact information you will need. Send a letter to the editor asking for submission guidelines. Always include a SASE (self-addressed stamped envelope). Be professional. In most instances, you will receive a very specific list back of do’s and don’ts. Who to submit to, what to send, where to send, etc. Follow these guidelines to the letter. Once you have dealt with a company, it is also common to receive a ‘design review schedule’ with a list of specific designs that they are looking for. If they are going to publish any special publications, such as a limited hardback edition, this information will also be passed on.
Always read carefully on how to submit to a particular company. Some may want just a photo of your finished item, while others will want the actual finished product. Most will always want a detailed written pattern along with the photo or product. Others still will only want this upon them requesting it. Always follow the guidelines specific to the company that you are submitting patterns. Be aware of what happens to ideas that are not excepted for publication. How fast is the turn around?
For those that already make their crafts to sell, this is an ideal way to make some extra money from their creations. When you finally receive an offer, make sure and read the contract over carefully. As in any business transaction, be aware of what you are signing. Will you receive the item itself back? Some companies keep the items, donating them to local charities, etc. to save on postage. Are you selling all rights to the pattern? If they republish the design in another leaflet, etc., will you receive an addition fee? Are contributor copies a standard?
This can be a unique way to see your name in print. It can also be a way to make some additional monies from your crafts. For whatever reasons you decide to try this, remember that as in all crafts, the rule to remember is to have fun!
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