Label | Explanation | Data Type |
The path and name of the output feature class containing the tessellated grid. | Feature Class | |
Extent | The extent that the tessellation will cover. This can be the currently visible area, the extent of a dataset, or manually entered values.
| Extent |
(Optional) | The type of shape to tessellate.
| String |
(Optional) | The area of each individual shape that comprises the tessellation. | Areal Unit |
(Optional) | The spatial reference to which the output dataset will be projected. If a spatial reference is not provided, the output will be projected to the spatial reference of the input extent. If neither has a spatial reference, the output is projected in GCS_WGS_1984. | Spatial Reference |
Tessellations can be produced using any drawing package, even quite simple ones. In our 'Do it yourself' section we show how this can be done fairly easily. This is often more satisfying than using purpose built software and the results can be worth it and sometimes unexpected 8-)
ORIGAMI SIMULATOR This app allows you to simulate how any origami crease pattern will fold. It may look a little different from what you typically think of as 'origami' - rather than folding paper in a set of sequential steps, this simulation attempts to fold every crease simultaneously. Free Vector Graphics Software Design with Vectr. Vectr is a free graphics software used to create vector graphics easily and intuitively. It's a simple yet powerful web and desktop cross-platform tool to bring your designs into reality.
However, there are several programs available that can help in the process and most can produce tessellations using all 17 wallpaper types and more. Some are easier to use than others but, if you have a pre-conceived idea of a subject you want, it is much more difficult.
The easiest way to produce tessellations using these programs is to let the software 'suggest' a subject. All of them will produce a mesh outline, or lattice, according to the symmetry rules you set. You then have to push and pull the lines, add and remove corners and points, etc, until you have shapes you recognise. You still have to interpret the results.
Tessellations Activity
Types There are few dedicated stand alone programs. A favourite of mine is 'Tesselmaniac'. Other packages 'plug in' to a main graphics program and use it to produce the actual artwork. A few are covered here - see below. The disadvantage of these is that you need to own the main program - and this can be expensive. Yet another way is by using a specially designed Java applet and producing tessellations directly on line. If you want to use the result, it has to be 'grabbed' off the screen.
Tessellation Maker Online
Details of some programs follow together with some example tessellations and screenshots from each. The examples include their symmetry types so you can replicate them if you have the program.
ON THE WORLD WIDE WEB | STAND-ALONE | PLUG-IN / ADD-ON |
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