Thank you for your interest in contributing to Farm & Fiber Knits as an author or designer. We love finding fresh ideas and invite new voices and visions. Here are some details about working with us.
Designs
We primarily publish women’s and unisex accessories and garments. We’re looking for practical fashion, wearable classics with a rustic edge, and layers you’ll live in.
Our current call for submissions is here.
Proposals are due June 7.
You’ll be notified if your design is chosen by July 1.
Finished projects and patterns are due September 15. (Please ask if you need more time; we can accept a limited number of later projects.)
Please submit your ideas using our simple web form to make sure we have the correct contact information and details. Feel free to submit more than one idea.
FAQ
Do you accept rolling submissions?
Although we publish patterns throughout the year, our calendar is grouped into 3 collections based on timing of photography. If you submit a proposal outside of the window above, we’ll let you know whether we anticipate accepting it for a future collection.
Will I get a reply to my submission?
We respond to all submissions received through our web form, which will email you a confirmation that your submission was received. If you submitted your idea more than 30 days ago and haven’t gotten a reply, or if something changes after you submit your proposal, please drop us a line.
Can I submit a design that has appeared on my website/in another magazine/etc?
We request that proposed designs have not been published previously; please tell us if a version has appeared elsewhere or is scheduled for release. If you’re uncertain about the status of a design, let’s discuss it.
I’m located outside North America. Will you consider my work?
We welcome international submissions (as long as we can receive the sample at our office).
Will I get my sample back?
We return original samples after publication (unless we make other arrangements in advance).
What are your criteria for choosing designs?
In addition to the individual merits of a design, we choose projects based on the following factors:
* Mix of items (project type and size)
* Mix of techniques (variety and complexity)
* Fit with brand, theme & aesthetic of the publication
* Designer experience—We work with designers at all levels of experience. We love new designers, and we may steer you toward a simpler design to see that you’re able to execute the idea that you’re proposing.
Will you provide yarn support? Can I use my own yarn?
Full yarn support is provided for accepted designs. We select yarns based on factors such as availability, relevance to the design or theme, variety, and advertiser support. We focus on natural, sustainable fibers, and we’re always looking for interesting new yarns and brands large and small. Please propose one or more yarns for your design and indicate why they would be a good fit or what properties the design relies on. We may not be able to use your first-choice yarn, but we’ll find something you’re happy using.
Who is responsible for tech editing? Do you run tests?
Patterns are reviewed by a trusted tech editor as well as a staff project editor at our expense. Although test knitting is not a regular part of our process, we’re happy to coordinate with designers who prefer to have patterns tested—let us know your process and how we can support you. For accuracy and consistency, we ask designers to create patterns following our pattern format.
What sizes are you expecting? Do I need to grade my own patterns?
We expect that patterns for garments and accessories will accommodate a range of adult body sizes in line with the Craft Yarn Council’s standards. We especially love designs that knitters can modify for their individual bodies.
What is your pay range? What are the terms of your contract?
We offer a flat fee depending on the complexity and size of the project. In general, payment ranges from $200–$400 for accessories and $400–$750 for garments. We retain exclusive rights to use the pattern for one year after first publication, after which you are free to use the pattern as you see fit. We also retain rights to reuse the pattern in the future. If you have a specific concern about terms, we may be able to accommodate your situation—please ask.
Articles
[coming soon)