Pattern Investigations

A pattern investigation is a method of exploring temari ideas in a systematic way. It can take many different forms, but they will all start with a basic idea and then change it slightly to see what the results may be. Read on for more detail or go directly to the list of investigations.

One type of pattern investigation is taking a particular temari pattern and changing one aspect of it to see what the resulting designs are. For example: Take a specific kiku pattern on an S8 division and alter the number of division lines. Take the same kiku pattern again on an S8 and alter whether the stitches are interlocked (nejiri kagari) or interwoven (kousa kagari). All variations would be part of the same investigation.

Other investigations could be focused on a particular design element, shapes on a particular division, color usage on a negative space type of pattern, or even different fiber choices on a particular pattern. In any case they all have the same goals.

The goals of an investigation are:

  • to get a better understanding of the stitch arrangements or techniques used.
  • to learn about the geometry of particular patterns, markings or divisions.
  • to generate new designs.
  • to learn what changes are possible with a given pattern.

An added bonus of investigating patterns in this way is that you learn one basic pattern and then through small variations you are able to make a large number of other designs. By organizing the designs into one investigation it becomes easier to see the relationships between them and to duplicate the results you like with other patterns.

This is a work in progress. I hope that others will want to contribute to these investigations, either by suggesting a pattern or idea to explore or by adding to the variations of one that is already started. If you want to participate, please send an email to temari@zymurlogic.net.

So on to the investigations:

Wrapped Bands on a C8 Investigation
Wrapped Bands on a C8 group pic of temari made with new technique for open and solid shapes
Investigating Kagari Techniques group pic of temari with thimble ring designs
Investigating Basic Thimblerings group pic of temari with a star motif
Investigating Stars Part 1 group pic of temari with a shaded center type of design
Investigating Multiple of Three Designs