How to Create an Online Tessellation

There exist only 17 basic shape groups for creating tessellations.

From tiled mosaics in metro or subway stations to the designs of the Alhambra, tessellations are everywhere. "Tessellation" comes from the Latin, tessera, or tiles and is a pattern with repeating shapes that neither overlap nor leave any gaps on a flat plane. M.C. Escher was famous for creating both color and black and white tessellations. You don't have to use actual tiles or know how to draw to create tessellations online.

Instructions

1. Visit the Tessellations website to build a tessellation with colored tiles of different shapes. You can choose the starting shape from the "Make Tessellations Online" category. For example, click on "Triangle grid." Pick one of the square colors and click on a triangular tile under the word "Tile." Click on a different color block and then click on a different blank triangle under "Tile." Your design will emerge in the left window.

2. Visit the Shodor.org website. Using the starting shape in the window, which is likely a hexagon, place your cursor on the hexagon until a cross appears. Drag the cross up, down or across to transform the shape. You can select another shape such as a triangle or rectangle and different colors. Click "Tessellate" to build the shape in the window. Scroll to the bottom to print your pattern if you'd like. You can also reset and start over.

3. Visit the PBS.org site for tessellations geared toward children. Click on "Let's Play" to begin. Children can select from one of four shapes at the bottom of the pane. Click on "Next Step" for design and color selections. Once you select these, click "Tessellate" to watch the tessellation come to life.

References

• California State University: Tessellations

Resources

• Gwydir: Tessellations
• Shodor Interactive: Tessellate!
• PBS: Tessellate