The turn of the year was the perfect excuse to organize my book library which made me remember this series I started but never continued.
Here are some design books that I like to go through once in a while. Some of them are great to find inspiration while others are filled with incredible wisdom nuggets and information. Same as last time: I provided Book Depository links which is from where I buy them most of the times. They might take a couple of weeks to get to you but the shipping is free! This list is in no particular order.
Classic Penguin: Cover to Cover
By Paul Buckley
Penguin is one of those book publishers that every designer dreams to collaborate with. The love and effort they put into designing and illustrating book covers clearly shines through. This book is a visual celebration of some of some of their best work and collaborations with artists from all over the world. I specially love that every project has a commentary by the illustrator telling how the project came to be and describing the process. If you love book covers this one is for you!
Things I have learned in my life so far (Revised and Updated)
By Stefan Sagmeister
This book started from a list from Sagmeister’s diary that turned into a series of typographical experiences. Stefan is one of the world’s most renowned designers and this book gives us a look into is mind through a series of incredibly designed mini booklets. Each one shows various thoughts Stefan’s learned throughout his life and how he interpreted them visually. Got this one directly from his studio in NYC which makes it even more special.
Brand by Hand
By Jon Contino
This was my latest purchase so I haven’t had the chance to dive deep into it but I had to include it here because Jon Contino is one of my favourite designers and illustrators. This book is a collection of his journey as a designer and goes through numerous projects of him showing us his inspirations and process. Jon was one of my biggest inspirations when I finished college and I still look up to him so it’s very special to have a book celebrating all the incredible work he’s been putting out. It’s one of those books that every page is a joy to look at - definitely recommend!
Graphic Artists Guild Handbook: Pricing & Ethical Guidelines, 15th Edition
By Graphic Artists Guild
I’ve been holding on buying this book for a while because I was waiting for this latest edition and I couldn’t be happier with the purchase. This book is the ultimate bible for everyone who’s working in any graphic field. It’s an incredible resource that goes through pricing, contracts, salaries and other advice. Pricing your work is always hard and this book is a great starting point to understand the value your work could have.
House Industries: The Process Is The Inspiration
By House Industries
House Industries is an incredible design studio that works on projects from fonts and branding to fashion. This book showcases an extensive body of work they’ve created throughout the years. Not only it is beautifully designed and printed but it also goes in deep and shares the stories of their people and shows the sketches and process that were the birth of the final product.
Hope you guys enjoyed this list. I still have so many more books to share and buy so feel free to share your recommendations!