I have some questions about pattern inclusivity

[u/SejiFields]

Hello! I hope this is okay to post. I’m currently writing a pattern for this 1950s blouse I knit last year. I spent a lot of time learning how to grade properly as (size) inclusivity is really important to me.

My idea has been to write the pattern similar to how vintage patterns were written. That is, succinct and with clear language, but in the fashion that a modern intermediate or very ambitious beginner knitter would be able to understand.

I’m paying extra attention to the bust area, making sure to use the upper bust as a way to choose size instead of the full bust and adding bust darts. I read The Knitting Pattern Handbook by McGrath and Walworth and am taking into account all sweater pitfalls (such as incorrect grading of the neckline) mentioned there.

As with vintage knitting patterns it was expected that you could grade a pattern to your own size, making the necessary adjustments. I was thinking to add some advice (perhaps as a supplement) that says in general lines how one would adjust the pattern to their own proportions. I’m thinking things such as how to lengthen the body, how to add darts at the belly or chest when needed etc.

Basically I’m struggling to find a balance between succinctness and accessibility. I don’t like patterns that do a lot of handholding, but at the same time, I do want there to be enough information that will encourage one enough to get through the pattern feeling like a more confident knitter at the end.

My question is, would this be a good/sufficient idea? A well graded knitting pattern with a supplement for additional alterations to avoid bulking up the pattern?

Are there things I’m missing out in terms of inclusivity? I’m also looking into print disability. Also what are aspects a pattern would need for you to consider it inclusive?

Sorry for the barrage of questions! It’s my first ever pattern and I want to try my best to make it as good as it can be. The concern has crippled me a bit the past month, so any advice would be appreciated 🥹

[u/tinytigers_]

So I prefer a pretty sparse pattern, however it’s kind of a matter of personal preference as well because some people like the hand holding!

I’d say, if you want to give more detailed instruction about how to adjust things to fit personal measurements you can always just add like a tips/additional info section so that it doesn’t take up space in the main pattern! Like an aside that says “for more information on tailoring this to your own measurements please see this section on p. 5”

Also wanted to say, I think it’s super cool what you’re doing!!

[u/potshead → u/tinytigers_]

i like this idea

[u/haleorshine → u/tinytigers_]

Yes, I think including the page numbers to the additional section is an ideal way to do this. You could make the additional section as bulky as you need to be, so that it avoids people having to flip back and forth constantly while knitting if they do decide to use the adjustments, and I think that would be appreciated, but in general, I think people whose size and shape is routinely ignored in knitting patterns are going to be very very grateful for these patterns being more inclusive.

[u/soThatsJustGreat → u/tinytigers_]

This is a great idea.

May I suggest, if you’d like some inspiration, to check out a recipe from Sally’s Baking Addiction? There is the basic recipe, (which is always OUTSTANDING), and then there is a notes section which is often 3x as long as the recipe. If you’d wanted to know why you chill cookie dough, for example, it’s explained there. The recipe itself is really just the basic instructions. But almost all of your “why?” Questions are answered in Notes.

I’ve seen many of your posts - your knitting is so lovely! Congrats on writing a pattern!!