Tessellated fabric printing
Creating a pattern that can be tessellated as a fabric print
In this hands-on craft activity for Ramadan, learners create a tessellated fabric print, giving them insight into textile design and manufacturing processes.
The lesson builds on the tradition of using tessellated designs in Islamic art, in particular designs based on natural forms such as plants. It's a great activity for teaching students about the Islamic period of Ramadan, which is a holy month of fasting, reflection and payer for Muslims.
This is one of a set of resources developed to aid the teaching of the KS3 secondary national curriculum. It has been designed to support the delivery of key topics within design and technology (DT), particularly textiles, as well as maths and science.
Activity: Creating a pattern that can be tessellated as a fabric print
This Ramadan textiles activity will see students following or step-by-step instructions for creating their own tessellated fabric print.
Tools/supplies needed:
- Kitchen Sponges
- Felt tip pens
- Fabric
- Paint
- Scissors
- Optional: pre-cut shapes to use as templates.
Follow our step-by-step guide on creating a pattern that can be tessellated as a fabric print. Students can make a tessellated fabric print by following these steps:
- Draw the individual tessellation shape onto a sponge (we've used 4 triangles).
- Cut the design into the sponge.
- Select your paints and prepare your fabric to print. Print your design onto your fabric by dipping the sponge into the paint (and don’t forget to tesselate!).
- Let the prints dry overnight.
The engineering context
Tessellation and fabric printing are used for creating a wide range of textile products such as clothing garments, wall hangings and soft furnishings. By exploring the intricate patterns and designs found in tessellation, students gain insight into how engineering principles are applied in the creation of some textiles.
Suggested learning outcomes
After finishing this fun Ramadan-inspired textiles lesson, students will understand what is meant be “tessellation” as well as be able to create a pattern than can be tessellated as a fabric print. As well as gaining this understanding, learners will be able to apply fabric printing techniques.
Download our activity sheet for free below!
The activity sheet includes teachers’ notes, useful web links, and links (where appropriate) to the national curriculum in each of the four devolved nations; England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales.
All activity sheets and supporting resources are free to download, and all the documents are fully editable, so you can tailor them to your students’ and your schools’ needs.
Download our classroom lesson plan and presentation below.
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