I’ve put together this graphic design books list to help you and other fellow designers. This list will cover graphic design, logo design, productivity and improving your freelance business. These are all books I’ve personally read and would recommend to anyone.
I only ever recommend products that I’ve personally used and read. If you buy something through my links, I may earn a commission.
Atomic Habits by James Clear
This book was a great read and it sets you up for being more productive throughout your day. It’s all about removing barriers that stop you from being productive. For example, if you want to exercise more, lay out your exercise clothes ready for the following day. So you see them and instantly put them on and get to it. The book gives loads of examples and gives you steps on how to be more productive in an increasingly busy world.
Change small things in your life to be more productive. This book has helped me to think about my day and tasks in a different way. Give this one a read, you won’t regret it.
Building A Second Brain by Tiago Forte
As humans, we are a curious bunch and love to learn as much as possible. Our brains can’t hold onto and remember everything which is why having a ‘second brain’ is a must. This book walks you through how to build a storage system that can help you retain even more information. Making it digital can give you a huge database of everything important to you.
I use the Notion app to log everything that I think I may need to refer back to in the future. Using a digital option allows me to search and find things a lot quicker. This can be anything from trusted contractors for house projects, to nice local places to visit or reminders for friends and family events.
Burn Your Portfolio by Michael Janda
This book was a joy to read. Not only was it easy to read with each page covering a different topic but Janda is a great source of knowledge when it comes to the freelance world. My copy of this book is full of post-it notes for things I want to action for my own freelance graphic design business.
This book is in my top 5 of all time must read graphic design books. So many golden nuggets of knowledge in here.
Company of One by Paul Jarvis
This book is a game changer in the world of freelance. Most money making/start up/business building books just talk about scaling and that is what you must do to make money. This book talks about how you can be successful as a solo business owner.
Having a ‘must grow’ mindset can be damaging for most businesses. This book helps you understand that growth and large offices are not always the answer. Also, all freelancers are a company of one but have outside help to grow their businesses. Great book overall!
Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
This book isn’t specifically about freelancing or graphic design but more on the topic of time and how we use it. It made me think about what I should be focusing on and what makes me happy. We have a very limited time on this planet and we should make the most of it. Time is valuable and we can’t buy more of it.
Also, be happy with what you do. Otherwise, what is the point? Give this book a read, it may just change your way of thinking and working.
Pretty Much Everything by Aaron James Draplin
Another great book in my must-read graphic design books list. Aaron Draplin is the godfather of the logo design and creative world. He’s paved the way for super simple and creative design. I’ve been a fan of Aaron’s since I stumbled upon his Field Note notebooks many years ago.
You can tell by just looking at the book cover that it was created with the utmost love and attention to detail. This book is FULL of great inspiration and advice. One to add to your bookcase.
Show Your Work by Austin Kleon
Potential clients won’t know you exist unless you share and showcase your work. Show Your Work is a great little book that can be read pretty quickly. There are some great takeaways from this book about showing up every day and sharing your work and personality.
This book helped me to realise that I need to show the process behind my work instead of just the polished end product. Clients want to see how you work and what goes into the project from the start.
Steal Like An Artist by Austin Kleon
Another great read from Austin Kleon. If you haven’t read any of his books yet you are missing out! This one is all about where to find and take inspiration from for your work.
Survival Skills for Freelancers by Sarah Townsend
I only started reading regularly again a few years ago and this book was one of the first self-help books I read through. This book gives loads of ideas and tips on how to be more productive as a freelancer without complete burnout.
This book is great for anyone at any point in their freelance career, whether you are a beginner or veteran you will gain something from reading this book. You’ll want to read this one over and over again.
The Honest Guide to Creativity and Logo Design by James Martin
If you are a fan of James Martin’s work and follow him on Instagram then this book is a must-have! James goes through his entire career as a logo designer. He features some case studies and guides on how to be a successful designer. Loads of useful nuggets of knowledge and some really nice imagery for you to look at.