Bonnie's Summer Reading List

family & slow living pattern magazine Oct 22, 2026

Bonnie Christine curled up in an armchair with a book and a mug, sunlight through the window

By: Bonnie Christine

Story Adapted From Pattern Magazine – Volume 5

Pattern Magazine is Bonnie Christine's quarterly print and digital publication for surface pattern designers, artists, and creative entrepreneurs who believe that how you live shapes what you make. This reading list first appeared in Volume 5, Gathering Sunshine, the summer 2026 issue.

Summer reading list.

Bonnie Christine curled up in an armchair with a book and a mug, sunlight through the window

Craft the Rainbow by Brittany Jepsen

Brittany is known for bringing creative joy and beauty to every day. And her book, Craft the Rainbow, invites you to do the very same with forty colorful paper projects tucked inside.

This book was made for summertime.

Keeping a Creative Sketchbook by Emma Block

Emma Block’s Keeping a Creative Sketchbook is the perfect companion for artists who want to cultivate a creative practice and fill their summer with inspiration.

Her own sketchbooks boast whimsical masterpieces layered in gouache, colored pencils, pastels, and more.

As you read her book, you may find yourself filling the pages of your own sketchbook, enjoying your creativity in a new way.

Give Yourself Margin by Stacie Bloomfield

Stacie Bloomfield, my friend and a talented designer, wrote this book, and I adore it.

It’s stunningly beautiful, filled with illustrations, advice, and care notes for artists. I so easily forget to give myself margin in my creative pursuits. Don’t we all?

Give Yourself Margin reminds me that it’s okay to make mistakes, grow through the process, and continue exploring.

Wanting More?

This reading list comes from Volume 5 of Pattern Magazine, Gathering Sunshine. The whole summer issue, with every story and photograph, is at bonniechristine.com/patternmagazine.