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Hello Reader,

I've been immersed in gathering and reviewing content for UPPERCASE issue #65—this issue will contain the 6th edition of the Surface Pattern Design Guide. The overall theme is "the many dimensions of surface pattern." It's going to be gorgeous and so full of inspiration and valuable information.

If you'd like to be one of the 100 portfolios featured in the guide, I've extended the deadline by two days. (As a Canadian, when I originally scheduled it, I didn't realize January 20 was also inauguration day and Martin Luther King Day in the USA.) Plus, I think we could all use some extra time.

There are 235 entries so far, so the current odds of getting published are pretty good!

The new deadline is January 22 at 23:59 pm MST.

Entrants will also be considered for many professional licensing and learning opportunities—including a Fabric Collection with Windham Fabrics.

→ The entry fee is USD $40* and will be used to cover the hosting and administration costs of this submission system. It will also be pooled as payments to artists selected for UPPERCASE projects, such as the SPDG cover and patterned paper bonus for subscribers.

*If the fee is a barrier, use one of the discount codes below. I trust that they will be used intentionally and respectfully by readers of this newsletter. I always want everyone to feel welcome—and be able to—submit their work to UPPERCASE.

Regular Entry Fee: $40 USD​ ​
Use “save10” for $10 off.
Use “savehalf20” for $20 off.
Use “free40” for a free entry.

Everything you need to know is on the Entry Page and Entry Form.

Enter SPDG6

A note on UPPERCASE magazine subscriptions & renewals​

With approximately 65% of my subscribers in the USA, I am concerned about Trump's 25% tariff threat "on ALL products coming into the United States" from Canada. The impact on both sides of the border would be considerable.

Would a 25% tariff apply to US shoppers purchasing online from a Canadian shop? Does it apply to magazines and books printed in Canada and sent to customers in the USA? Would I have to tax my customers 25% extra on everything shipped—subscriptions included—and then remit that amount to the US government? From Export Development Canada: "Buyers are usually responsible for paying tariffs. Tariffs are a tax on imported goods, paid by the person or company that imported them."

The impact of having to charge 25% more for my books, magazines and subscriptions is horrifying to contemplate. No one can afford this. I don't have any answers, but we will all soon find out.

If you're living in the USA and have been considering becoming a subscriber, before January 20 might be a good time!

Reader Submissions to The Pattern Journal

Courtney Graben is a surface pattern designer originally from South Florida. Her favorite types of patterns are florals and fun novelty prints. She has had prints seen in T.J.Maxx, Bealls, Shein, and more! Instagram / Website​

Margherita Fiannacca I am an Italian pattern designer and illustrator. My career began over 20 years ago as a graphic designer after graduating from an Artistic High School and earning a degree in Industrial Design in the city of Genoa. After years spent in front of a screen, the need to reconnect more deeply with my creativity and craftsmanship led me to rediscover my passion for illustration, which evolved into a love for pattern design. I draw inspiration from organic shapes and everyday life, translating them into a style of simple forms with imperfect lines that bring a sense of authenticity to daily life. This is why I enjoy combining digital and traditional techniques, such as collage, which helps to distill everything down to a sort of profound essentiality. I strongly believe in the power of simplicity, a value I strive for both in my work and personal life. Instagram / Website​

Tresa Meyer-Clark Bumblebee and Berries. Creating a meaningful message through an illustration is a starting point to developing my surface patterns. Also, sharing a story through my artwork is an important part of my process. If I have a chance to touch someone in a positive way, it inspires me all over again! Instagram / Website​

This month at UPPERCASE

The Jan-Feb-March 2025 issue is on its way to subscribers and is available in my shop. Use the code newyear10 for CAD$10 off subscriptions and renewals.

Coming in 2025: Feed Sacks (originally released in 2016) is undergoing a crowdfunding campaign for a reprint. This epic book has 850 vintage fabric swatches and 544 pages. A must-have for any design library! And Glue is Volume G in the UPPERCASE Encyclopedia of Inspiration. Auditions are open to collage and assemblage artists. Preorders support the production of the book. thank you!