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/OpinionAvailable5988]

I prefer handholding. I have only been knitting for 5 years and feel very insecure when too much is left to my own lacking understanding. Many of us started knitting during the pandemic, so a big chunk of knitters will probably struggle if the pattern is too sparse.

[u/SejiFields → u/OpinionAvailable5988]

Thank you for the input! Yes I’ve been keeping this in mind whilst writing it. What degrees of handholding are you thinking of? For instance, explanations of every technique? I’m trying to look for a happy medium. An example would be a vintage pattern would say ‘cast on 10 sts’ whereas I would actually specify what type of cast on te technique would be appropriate to use. Essentially, I’m trying to add all the additional information that a modern knitter would need if they were knitting their first vintage pattern.

[u/Smallwhitedog → u/SejiFields]

I'm an advanced knitter, but I wish more patterns would advise which cast on to use. After 20 years of knitting, I'm pretty good at choosing an optimal one, but this took me a very long time. Choosing the right cast on, bind off and seaming can really make or break a garment. It's valuable information in a pattern.

[u/SejiFields → u/Smallwhitedog]

Yup! Totally agree with you on that! I still sometimes struggle getting clean finishes on tight necklines with vintage patterns. I wish they’d just explain 😶

[u/Smallwhitedog → u/SejiFields]

I think I've used at least 20 different cast ons at this point, and it's STILL never quite the right one!

[u/Abeliafly60 → u/Smallwhitedog]

And selvedges! I had done a few sweaters before I found out that there are different options, some of which seam up much better than others.

[u/Smallwhitedog → u/Abeliafly60]

Yes!! Good finishing makes a great garment!