Originally Posted by Flying_V_Goddess
If you read my other post, you know I expressed an interest in publishing patterns for my designs. I gotta pass a few "road blocks" before that happens (the legal stuff, getting them made out first, etc.) But I got to thinking about it and I realized something......I don't really know what all goes into a published pattern. I know the actual pattern and step-by-step instructions to make it, but what else would be nessicary (or good to have)? I don't know. I've never bought a pattern before. Any suggestions?
I suggest that you get a few patterns from different designers and try them out.
Drafting and writing instructions for a quilt is definitely a MATH project. I use AutoSketch, which is a simplified version to AutoCAD to create illustrations for the step-by-step assembly.
Figuring accurate yardage requirements for different size options is important - people won't like it if you tell them the wrong amount!
Have two or more people try to make the quilt from your instructions before you offer it for sale, to iron out all the kinks. Double check all calculations!
Make a nice sample and get a very good photograph of it for the pattern cover. That's what will sell your pattern.