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.

Recent Posts

Woman jogging outside wearing a tank top printed with Tour de Citrus in warm pink grapefruit.

Follow the Fruit

10th Place, Breaking Plaid.

Ten for Ten

Toile de Vie wallpaper on the back wall of a modern living room, in aqua blue.

The Toil in Toile

Tattooed woman wearing tee shirt featuring Breaking Plaid in Black Watch colors.

Breaking Plaid

Wait โ€” take 15% off your first order.

Join the First Look Club and see new designs before anyone else.

Name(Required)