Crafting by Concepts: Fiber Arts and Mathematics

From the editors of the popular Making Mathematics with Needlework, this book presents projects that highlight the relationship between types of needlework and mathematics. Chapters start with accessible overviews presenting the interplay between mathematical concepts and craft expressions. Following sections explain the mathematics in more detail, and provide suggestions for classroom activities. Each chapter ends with specific crafting instructions. Types of needlework included are knitting, crochet, needlepoint, cross-stitch, quilting, temari balls, beading, tatting, and string art. Instructions are written as ordinary patterns, so the formatting and language will be familiar to crafters.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Welcome Back Prologue Chapter Structure Research Update A Note for Educators How to Use This Book Conclusion Knit Knit Revolution Overview Mathematics Teaching Ideas Crafting Revolutionary Hats Generalized Helix Striping Overview Mathematics Teaching Ideas Crafting a Helix Striped Spiral Nightcap and Bed Socks A Knitted Cross-Cap The Math and Motivation behind the Pattern Crafting the Knitted Cross-Cap Fashioning Fine Fractals from Fiber Overview Mathematics Teaching Ideas Crafting the Sierpiriski Triangle Diaper Patterns in Needlepoint Overview Mathematics Teaching Ideas Crafting the Symmetry Cube Group Actions in Cross-Stitch Overview Mathematics Teaching Ideas Crafting the Two-Color Symmetry Sampler Perfectly Simple: Squaring the Rectangle The Math and Motivation behind the Pattern Crafting Perfectly Simple Spherical Symmetries of Ternari Overview Mathematics Teaching Ideas Crafting Three Temari Balls Quilting Semiregular Tessellations Overview Mathematics Teaching Ideas Crafting Semiregular Quilts About the Contributors Credits Fiber Arts Bibliography Index