# Stitch Authority resource comparison

Generated: 2026-07-28T18:36:26.794Z
Comparison: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/compare?ids=grading-guide%2Chook-needle%2Cyarn-database-eu%2Cpattern-testers>

This file preserves the published decision metadata for the selected routes. It is not a recommendation, provider approval, compliance decision, or record of project-specific due diligence.

## 1. Pattern Grading & Size-Run Validation Record

Permanent record: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/grading-guide>
Source page: <https://stitchauthority.com/guides/pattern-grading-explained>

- Primary job: Find patterns & fit
- Area: Patterns & fit
- For: Apparel brands
- Location or jurisdiction: Global
- Access: Open access
- Format: Stitch Authority
- Source type: Stitch Authority
- Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-27
- Next review due: 2027-07-27

### Best for

Auditing inherited grade rules or controlling a new multi-size pattern release from approved targets through sample evidence

### What the source establishes

The guide cites current ISO body-table, size-designation, and garment-measurement boundaries plus two peer-reviewed studies that tested the relationship between conventional grade rules, anthropometric evidence, and garment fit; it requires product-specific target deltas and validation instead of publishing universal increments.

### Know before using

The record does not create a production grade, supply universal increments or breakpoints, validate a CAD file or fit population, reproduce licensed standards, or replace qualified anthropometric, pattern, technical-design, fit, quality, accessibility, safety, statistical, and user-research review.

## 2. Knitting Needle to Crochet Hook Size Chart

Permanent record: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/hook-needle>
Source page: <https://stitchauthority.com/tools/hook-needle-converter>

- Primary job: Learn techniques
- Area: Yarn
- For: Makers
- Location or jurisdiction: Global
- Access: Open access
- Format: Stitch Authority
- Source type: Stitch Authority
- Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-28
- Next review due: 2027-07-28

### Best for

Finding the current CYC hook and needle aliases that share one known nominal metric diameter before confirming project gauge

### What the source establishes

Rechecked July 28, 2026. The lookup reproduces the current public Craft Yarn Council metric and U.S. alias rows, aligns hooks and needles only when their nominal millimetre value matches, and leaves missing rows or aliases unfilled.

### Know before using

A shared nominal diameter does not make a knitting needle and crochet hook interchangeable or predict equal gauge or fabric. The reference is not a physical measurement, manufacturer inspection, UK or Canadian conversion, steel-hook chart, tool recommendation, yarn assignment, or project approval.

## 3. Yarn Database EU Dyers and Makers

Permanent record: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/yarn-database-eu>
Source page: <https://www.yarndatabase.com/location/eu/>

- Primary job: Choose materials
- Area: Yarn
- For: Makers
- Location or jurisdiction: European Union
- Access: Open access
- Format: Directory
- Source type: Community database
- Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-15
- Next review due: 2027-01-11

### Best for

Finding independent EU yarn or fibre dyers with off-Ravelry purchase routes

### What the source establishes

The individually researched database offers free listings and sortable yarn, fibre, designer, editor, accessory, and location views; the EU page spans multiple countries and direct seller profiles.

### Know before using

It is one curator's intentionally selective, off-Ravelry-oriented database, inventories change, and paid supporters can receive rotating priority placement; verify availability, fibre claims, shipping, and terms directly.

## 4. Pattern Testers

Permanent record: <https://stitchauthority.com/directory/pattern-testers>
Source page: <https://patterntesters.com/>

- Primary job: Find patterns & fit
- Area: Patterns & fit
- For: Apparel brands
- Location or jurisdiction: Global
- Access: Free + paid
- Format: Software
- Source type: First-party platform
- Linked page reviewed: 2026-07-21
- Next review due: 2027-01-17

### Best for

Coordinating an independent sewing-pattern test

### What the source establishes

Pattern Testers currently offers application intake, tester selection, feedback, photos, approvals, issue tracking, revisions, a reusable tester directory, and release deadlines. The public pricing page shows a limited free plan and paid Pro and Business tiers. Its June 2026 privacy policy lists names, email addresses, measurements, photos, feedback, application history, and assignments among the data processed.

### Know before using

The interface and plan description do not prove tester reach, completion, feedback quality, fit validity, export quality, uptime, support, or suitability for an established release process. Measurements and photos can be sensitive personal data. Run a non-critical pilot, review the current privacy and service terms, define consent and photo rights, test exports and deletion, and keep pattern approval and release responsibility with the designer.

## Next checks

1. Remove any route whose audience, jurisdiction, access, or scope does not match the job.
2. Open the permanent record and source page for every remaining route.
3. Recheck facts that can change after the listed review date.
4. Verify project-specific capability, terms, test evidence, and legal requirements with the responsible source or provider.
5. Record the reason for the final choice outside Stitch Authority.
