One day I read about a historical system of Japanese seasons. This system divides each of the four main seasons into six (called sekki). Each sekki is further split into three microseasons (called kō). That’s a whopping 72 seasons per year. The microseasons (each only a few days long) have fabulous names based on nature observations. I had a lightbulb moment: the name of each microseason could be the perfect prompt for a new pattern.

What about colours though? After weeks of research I found a tiny book, originally published in the 1930s, detailing 72 colour palettes inspired by seasonal images of Japan. The forward says “We hope that this book will bring color to its reader’s daily life, and prove useful in all kinds of creative situations.” Bingo!

72 kō + 72 palettes = 72 design briefs.

So that’s what I have been working on: a year in pattern. It’s been an amazing challenge, the subjects and colours often pushing me well outside my comfort zone (‘The springwater holds warmth’ in shades of beige and mauve? It’s ended up being one of my favourites!)

I have collected all of the Winter patterns – November 8th to February 3rd – to create this perpetual journal. For me it’s a tangible record of my project and a handy portfolio. For you perhaps it’s a home for your nature observations, a journal, a place to note birthdays, or just a coffee table talking point.

The patterns are big, bold, crisp and bursting with unexpected colour combinations, and they’re balanced by the pared back, carefully considered binding and layout. If you love colour, pattern, nature, stationery, or simply the smell of ink on deliciously printed paper, then I hope this piques your interest. My dream is that some of you might want to collect the full set.