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GPSR / Safety Statement

General Safety Guidelines 

Our Little Fig patterns are designed with safety in mind, and are intended for personal use only, and are not designed for use by children. These guidelines are written with the aim of providing a safe and positive making experience. 

Please note that following our patterns requires the use of sharp tools (such as needles, pins, scissors, knitting needles) and machinery (such as sewing machines), which can pose risks if not used safely. 

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1. Product testing & editing 

Little Fig ensures that every pattern is tested to provide clear and precise instructions for makers.  

Patterns specify 

 – yarn or fabric type recommendations, needle or hook sizes, gauge requirements and seam allowances.  

 – Important safety notes for items such as baby clothing. 

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If a significant error or safety issue is identified in a pattern, Little Fig will make corrections to the pattern, and ensure an updated version is made available to all those who have purchased the pattern. 

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2. Supervision for beginners 

If you are new to knitting, crochet or sewing, we strongly recommend seeking the supervision or guidance of an experienced adult, especially when using sharp tools or machinery. Always read the instructions through in full before beginning, use scrap yarn or fabric to practise or work test swatches, and work in a well-lit area. Tools with sharp points should only be used when seated, or standing at a stable desk or table, to avoid injury. 

 

3. Protective equipment & workspace safety 

To help prevent injury, consider the use of protective equipment, such as a thimble, or protective gloves. 

Ensure your workspace is clear and well organised, and free of hazards, particularly for children. 

Store tools such as knitting needles and scissors away securely when not in use and ensure sharp points of tools are pointed away from the face and body whilst you are working. 

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Follow all manufacturer’s instructions for use of equipment and materials. This includes the use of printers when printing patterns, and projectors when projecting patterns, to ensure safe use and avoidance of injuries. 

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4. Clear instructions for safe use 

Pattern users are responsible for following the instructions and ensuring the safety of materials and equipment used in their making projects. For items made for small children or babies, makers should verify that all materials used meet relevant safety requirements in their home country, e.g. non-toxic/hypoallergenic fabrics or yarn, and that buttons are fixed securely to withstand a pull force of 7 newtons. Ensure all small pieces such as buttons are stored away securely when not in use to prevent choking hazards. 

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5. Not for use by children 

Our patterns are not for use by children under the age of 14, unless under full adult supervision. 

 

6. Digital file safety 

Patterns are provided in user-friendly digital format (PDF) that is accessible on a wide range of devices, using Adobe Acrobat Reader or a web browser. At the time of publishing a pattern, our files are free of malware or adware, and any external links to our website or social media are checked regularly to ensure they continue to link to safe, verified resources.  

It is also recommended that makers always scan files with their own antivirus software as an additional precaution.  

Only download files from trusted sources, such as our own official website, to ensure the integrity and safety of the PDF. 

 

7. Overall general safety 

All digital knitting, crochet and sewing patterns provided by Little Fig comply with applicable safety and quality standards. Patterns included clear and accurate instructions to minimise risks, such as errors leading to unsafe finished items. Whilst our digital knitting, crochet and sewing patterns do not pose direct physical risks, we take measures to ensure safe practice by  

  • Testing and editing all of our patterns prior to publication to eliminate errors and inaccuracies. We make our own samples following our own pattern instructions, and we work with testers with a range of experience levels, who also create samples. Any issues highlighted during this testing period are rectified and resolved before the pattern is published. 

  • Including safety recommendations. 

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We always welcome feedback on our patterns – whilst we make every effort to eliminate errors in our patterns, we are only human, and mistakes can be missed. Makers are encouraged to report errors or potential safety concerns to Little Fig via email info@littlefighandmade.co.uk – all feedback will be reviewed, and action taken as needed. 

 

Our Little Fig patterns are designed with safety in mind, are intended for personal use only, and intended as a guide for creating handmade items. While every effort has been made to provide clear, accurate and safe instructions Little Fig assumes no liability for any issues, damages, or injuries resulting from the use or misuse of this pattern, or of the final products made from it. 

 

- Michelle Reid & Charis Reid (Little Fig) 

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