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Network: Equilateral Triangles: Japan

j_pattern1Japanese pattern design is one of the most brilliant applications of basic geometric constructions in the domain of visual design. Japanese craft workers have used these patterns on a multiplicity of surfaces and materials, from fabrics and papers to wood carvings and ceramics. The pattern shown here is one of those based upon the hexagon.

  • Construct a regular Hexagon and connect all it’s apices, forming a network. That is, connect Points A, B, C, D, E, and F to derive lines AC, AE, AD, lines BD, BE, BF, lines CF and CE, and line DF.
  • Where Line FD intersects Line EB at Point X ,drop a perpendicular to line ED to locate Point Y.
  • With Point D as centre, radius equal to DY, swing an arc about D to meet Line DC at point Z.
  • Repeat this practice for each successive edge line of the Hexagon ( ED-DC, DC-CB, CB-BA, BA-AF, AF-FE, FE-ED)
  • Place hexagons together to form a hexagonal field pattern or network, repeating the process for each separate Hexagon.
  • Select arcs as shown so as to create the illusion of an inter-woven network of shapes.

This pattern will be useful for ceramic tile designers, wood-workers, metal crafters, quliters, fabric designers, and others who use patterns in their design work. While the final appearance appears complex, the construction shown explains clearly how logical and straight-forward the design actually is. It is the realization of the ultimate simplicity underlying the pattern that increases the viewer’s engagement and aesthetic enjoyment.

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