Threaded borders were a staple design element in Ottoman decoration, appearing across manuscript illumination, textiles and architecture, and becoming particularly prominent from the 15th to the 17th centuries. Carefully constructed using three interlaced lines, these patterns are highly regular and easily scaled, making them ideal for framing pages, panels and calligraphic compositions in a wide range of applications.

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Over two sessions, you’ll learn how to construct a simple geometric foundation and discover how to combine this underdrawing with graceful freehand curves and enchanting motifs. We’ll explore several design variations, demonstrating how a single underlying structure can generate a whole family of border patterns.

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By the end of the workshop, you’ll have a personal repertoire of rhythmical triple-thread patterns that you can call upon and adapt to enrich your own creative work with their timeless beauty and elegance.

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I look forward to welcoming you.

 

 

Skill level: Beginner. No previous experience is required, although some familiarity with a drawing compass would be advantageous.

 

*Please note that images shown include examples of my border art and may differ slightly from those taught in the workshop.