Thoughts / 113 posts since 2015

Ideas that refused
to leave quietly.

Notes, essays, and the odd announcement on design, code, and building things, written down whenever a thought wouldn't let go.

№ 043 / 24 August 2019 / 3 min read

CSS Darkmode

A practical guide to implementing dark mode on your website using the prefers-color-scheme media query and CSS variables—with a bonus color-mix() enhancement.

№ 042 / 21 August 2019 / 2 min read

CSS Checkbox Hack

A deep dive into the CSS checkbox hack—a clever technique to toggle elements without JavaScript, with examples, accessibility notes, and limitations.

№ 041 / 16 August 2019 / 1 min read

Dotbot is a lightweight JavaScript library that allows you to generate randomized dotted background patterns on any HTML element. It's great for adding subtle texture and visual interest to your site without relying on images or heavy assets.

№ 040 / 14 August 2019 / 1 min read

The Perfect Alt-text

A quick guide to writing effective alt-text—why it matters for accessibility, common mistakes to avoid, and how to craft clear, helpful descriptions.

№ 039 / 8 August 2019 / 4 min read

Writing SVG Paths

A comprehensive guide to writing SVG paths by hand, with visual examples and breakdowns of all major path commands for precise, code-based drawing.

№ 038 / 7 August 2019 / 1 min read

CSS Conical Gradients

An intro to conic gradients in CSS—how they differ from radial gradients, how to implement them, and what browsers currently support them.

№ 037 / 3 August 2019 / 2 min read

HTML Datalist Element

A quick guide to using the HTML <datalist> element to create autocomplete input fields without JavaScript—plus tips on styling and browser support.