Why aren’t your patterns For Sale on Ravelry?
In June 2020, Ravelry launched an updated design which was not accessible to many users. There were reports of seizures, migraines, headaches, and eyestrain being caused. I was personally affected. Many of us spent a great deal of time working out what the issues were and providing invaluable feedback to help Ravlery make the site safe for us. Accessibility experts and web developers offered their time and expertise for free to help get the changes made.
Ravelry responded by insisting there was no problem, shutting down any discussion about what was wrong, censoring words such as “disabled” and “harm” on their social media posts, calling us “silly”, and in some cases even sending abusive e-mails.
I cannot support a company that causes physical harm to its customers, gaslights them, and refuses to provide basic accessibility.
But you list your patterns on Ravelry?
I list my patterns on Ravelry because if I don’t, someone else will. Since their being there is inevitable, I would rather do it myself so I have control of my IP (intellectual property) and can ensure an accurate representation of my work. This does not obligate me to support or help fund them.
What are these extra files with PC-SR in the title?
These are the “accessible” versions of my patterns, which are designed to meet the needs of print challenged and screen reader users. They may also be helpful for knitters who are dyslexic or otherwise neurodivergent. You can read more about that here.
I love your free content – how can I support you?
Thank you so much! If something I’ve put up for free has helped you, please consider buying me a coffee.