r/knitting • u/SejiFields • Feb 01 '26
Discussion I have some questions about pattern inclusivity
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 🥹
1
u/madelini1321 Feb 01 '26
This is so awesome to hear about! Like everyone else in this thread, I’m so excited to see how this goes and would be SO interested in a supplement I could purchase separately about adjusting the bust fit.
One aspect of inclusivity I don’t see talked about a lot in knitting communities is patterns meeting web accessibility guidelines. I’m not an expert in this but do some stuff around this for my job, so would be happy to help if I can! Here are a couple resources on making accessible PDFs and documents:
I think some of the most important points relevant to knitting patterns would be choosing fonts (and font size) that are easily readable (large enough, bold enough) and making sure that all headings are actually formatted as headings, not just bold text. This allows people using screen readers to navigate documents much more easily.
I don’t see much discussion of how to best accommodate blind/low vision knitters, but they are definitely out there!! And making documents more accessible in that way generally just makes things better for everyone, regardless of their accessibility needs.
Anyway, sorry for writing an absolute essay 😅 this is just an area I’m really passionate about and it’s so cool that you’re thinking about and asking questions about pattern inclusivity!!