Guess what?

I started this journey of pursuing a career in a surface pattern design (SPD) in February 2023. At that time, I shared with a friend my new obsession, and she mentioned that Uppercase does an SPD issue every two years, featuring a directory of 100 designers, and that they were currently accepting applicants. I was already aware of Uppercase as being a super cool quarterly featuring illustration and graphic design – really beautiful and inspiring work, and a cool magazine in total. I took a leap, even though I was a super duper newbie, and sent in my favorite designs. Not surprising, I did not make it into that issue. Boo hoo.

Fast forward 2 years, during which I’d been working hard at learning this industry and honing my skills. Most significant has been my continual entries into Spoonflower’s design challenges. I haven’t missed a single one since my first entry back in March 2023. I’ve done pretty well, considering how new this is to me. My designs have been voted top 100 many times and top ten four times (once as #1!). Considing most of these competitions get 1500-2000 entries, that’s pretty good I think!

Well, I’d been waiting for my next chance to try to get into the SPD directory at Uppercase, and sent in my entry earlier this year. I am VERY EXCITED to announce that I made the cut this time! Hurray!!

Uppercase Magazine, April 2025 Issue, Cover "Keep Making Things".
Directory page featuring 6 out of 100 chosen surface pattern designers.
Close up of my feature, left column of page 106. Selected designs include #1 winner, Groundhog Day Damask, and two more of my popular designs, Belle Epoch, and Mind Your Own Damn Business.

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Mary Jones Design Logo.

And guess what else?

Uppercase Magazine, April 2025 Issue, Cover "Keep Making Things".

Guess what?

Art Deco Great White Egret placed 75 out of 1673 entries in Spoonflower's Art Deco design challenge.

#75 for Great White Egret!

Baby Elephant Garden placed 63rd out of 1360 entries in Spoonflower's Pet Doodles design challenge.

63rd Place for Baby Elephant Garden