Radial Symmetry Name Design

Below are the steps for our Radial Symmetry Name Design. By the end of the designing process, you can't even read the name! But, you are left with a stunning, well thought-out design!



1.Brainstorm 3 different ways to create a name design (typography!) and draw them inside a triangle shape.

2.Fold a scrape paper so you have 16 boxes created by the creases. Use at least 8-10 of these boxes to draw patterns and designs you like. Use the Zentangle examples for inspiration!

3.Use a 12”x12” piece of paper and fold it in half from side to side AND top to bottom (These are called “bookfolds”). Then make two diagonal folds. You should have 8 triangles created by the creases. In one of the triangles draw your favorite name design. Use a “heavy hand” and make the pencil lines a bit dark.

4.Fold your paper in half backwards (mountain fold). You should be able to see your name design on one side. Take that side, with your design on it, and place it face down on a window or a light box. You should be able to see through the paper sheets to see your design. It might be backwards! That’s okay! Trace your design.

5. Open the paper up and then fold it another way. REMEMBER your name design must be facing out. Don't fold it to the inside! Again, place it face down on a light source and start to trace. Do this until all triangles are filled.

6.Now.. go back to your sketchbook and create three different color combinations by drawing a box with an large X across it. Each of the four spaces created by the X should be filled in with a color combination. Think, cool colors, warm colors, bright colors, dull colors, muted colors, punk colors, mellow colors, pastel colors, etc.

7.Once you have decided on a good color combination, start to color in the shapes on the name design! PLEASE USE markers “line by line” or color with some kind of “order”. The marks made by coloring with marker are usually visible an so, in this design of symmetry and order, the marks need to add to that sense and not detract by being scribbles!!

8. Now pick a few designs/patterns from the options your created earlier. Using an ultra find sharpie, fill in some of the colored shapes with patterns to add another layer of interest!

Project Rubric
(click on the image to enlarge)