Open site redesign using a pattern library

As I’ve mentioned previously, I’m in the process of redesigning this web site. It’s very much a work in progress.

Pattern Library

As a first step I’m building a pattern library and I’ve decided to open source the repo during the build process. I’m using Pattern Lab for the purpose.

Trying the SUIT CSS Naming Convention

I’m in the process of redeveloping this site. The site will still use WordPress but I’ll be adding a custom skin.

I’ve been wanting to try Pattern Lab for a while, so the first step is to create a pattern library. It’s early days, today’s task it to set up a reset and base styles.

Additionally, I’ll be sampling a CSS naming convention I’ve been meaning to try for a little while. A personal project is the perfect opportunity.

Automatically generate Pattern Lab on git pull

Pattern libraries are becoming better known as sites such as the BBC and A List Apart release their pattern libraries publicly. For the uninitiated, a pattern library is a collection of elements used on a web site. They define everything from the base font to page layouts.

Brad Frost and Dave Olsen’s Pattern Lab is one tool for creating a style guide. As the demo shows, it combines both a style guide and a method for testing the responsiveness of a web site.

When creating a style guide using Pattern Lab for your site, it’s necessary to store the /source directory in your Git repo.