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Hello Reader,

Love these bendy pencils submitted by Becca Franks! (Share your pattern work for next month's edition of The Pattern Journal.)

If you'd like to stretch your creative muscles or try a new direction in your artwork, check out Bonnie Christine's Print & Pattern Revival—it's a free event starting next week.

ps If you're not already, please become an UPPERCASE magazine subscriber. Subscriptions keep all of this going! Use the code keepgoing for a discount at checkout. The current issue, #68 Jan-Feb-March, is a must-have for illustrators—it explores how human-made artwork and imagery are more important than ever.

Reader Submissions

​Submit your surface pattern design work to be featured in an upcoming Pattern Journal or in UPPERCASE magazine.

Playful Tools & Whimsical Forests
by Becca Franks

As a creative person, I love the possibilities that appear the moment I pull out my art supplies and tools. They’re where the magic begins, and these patterns celebrate the sheer joy those everyday objects bring me. The forest is another deeply rooted part of my life. I’m fascinated by its quiet, its hidden secrets, and the many elements that work together to create life within it. This set of patterns explores everything from the tiniest mushrooms on the forest floor to the birds in the sky—each one a vital member of these special places. Instagram / Website​

Sapna Sharon

These are my pattern collections inspired by nature and the small details found in plants, flowers, and wildlife. I use a painterly, organic approach and prefer to let shapes and textures form naturally. The work is influenced by botanical references, seasonal colours, and hand-drawn elements, resulting in soft, expressive patterns. Website​

South African Paradise Flycatcher
by Sue Krizman

On a recent trip to South Africa, I was taken by all the sights and sounds, colours, and textures. The amazing people and the inspiring spirits moved me. I am still processing it all and producing individual prints and designs. I’m not rushing it. I’m sort of letting it come to me. I was very taken by the birds and the botanicals I saw. All so different from what I'm used to! This is my drawing of a South African bird I was in love with. It’s called the South African Paradise Flycatcher and has the most amazing tail feathers! Here it is with flowers that are common to the area – Protea, Silky Podalyria, and wild white Roses. I have it here in 6 colorways that feel like South Africa to me. Also, including a preliminary sketch to show the beginning of my process. Instagram / Website​

Catching my eye...

Slate pencils from the 1950s at Present & Correct.​

And "type" pencils from the 1970s.