More than three thousand years ago, the Chinese started using wooden lattice grilles in their windows. The wooden lattice is painted either in black, red or decorated with gilt then covered with translucent rice paper. Just before Chinese New Year every year, the paper is replaced with fresh paper; any damaged lattice repaired – all to welcome the New Year.
From an artistic standpoint, Chinese lattice is visually appealing and for the mathematician, intellectually intriguing. Each lattice is laid out with precision and absolute accuracy; often a series of octagon, hexagon, parallelograms form a maze that is perfectly ordered.
This lattice work is the inspiration behind this cuff. A series of precisely placed right angle woven units laid out in a mesmerizing pattern. A seemingly intricate grid using colors, finishes and embellishments resulting in a lace-like cuff. The same lattice precision is reinforced through the use of the intriguing right angle weave.
The clasp and bracelet endings are woven from cubic right angle weave in an open-work lace style. This creates an intricate, delicate filigree style clasp that is as much a focal point as the bracelet itself.
A great way to get familiar with the often frustrating right angle weave. The use of different colors and finishes will help you “see” the different units with ease. An impressive addition to any wardrobe.
This tutorial is in two parts. The first part details the construction of the bracelet and the clasp. The second part “One Pattern, Three Variations” is a suggestion of color types, finishes and embellishments that create three separate looks for the same bracelet.
