📖 Overview
Twists, Tilings, and Tessellations presents techniques for origami tessellations and corrugations - repeating patterns created through folded paper. The book provides mathematical foundations and practical instruction for creating geometric designs through systematic folding methods.
The text progresses from basic concepts to advanced applications, covering both abstract theory and specific folding sequences. Step-by-step diagrams and photographs illustrate hundreds of patterns, from traditional to modern designs.
Lang combines principles from geometry, algebra, and programming to develop a comprehensive framework for origami tessellation design. Technical chapters alternate with galleries of completed works that demonstrate real-world applications.
This volume bridges art and mathematics, showing how fundamental principles can generate endless variations in paper folding. The systematic approach opens new possibilities for both traditional craftspeople and contemporary designers.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this as a technical, math-heavy reference book aimed at experienced origami designers. Many note it's not suitable for beginners.
Likes:
- Comprehensive coverage of geometric concepts and theorems
- Clear diagrams and illustrations
- Practical techniques for creating original tessellations
- In-depth mathematical explanations
- Quality paper and binding
Dislikes:
- Advanced math knowledge required
- Dense, academic writing style
- High price point ($85-95)
- Limited coverage of basic techniques
One reader noted: "This is a graduate-level textbook, not a how-to guide." Another said: "The math sections require serious study to understand."
Ratings:
Amazon: 4.8/5 (21 reviews)
Goodreads: 4.7/5 (19 ratings)
The book receives consistent high marks from serious origami designers and mathematicians, while casual folders find it too technical for practical use.
📚 Similar books
Origami Design Secrets by Robert Lang
Mathematical principles and crease patterns merge with artistic paper folding through detailed geometric concepts and algorithms.
The Elements of Pop-Up by David Carter and James Diaz Technical drawings and paper engineering fundamentals reveal the mathematics behind movable book construction.
Mathematical Quilts by Diana Venters and Elaine Krajenke Ellison Geometrical patterns and mathematical concepts translate into fabric design through tessellations and symmetry.
Islamic Geometric Patterns by Eric Broug Construction methods of Islamic patterns demonstrate the application of geometry in traditional architectural design.
Geometric Origami by Faye Goldman Step-by-step constructions connect mathematical principles to modular origami forms through geometric analysis.
The Elements of Pop-Up by David Carter and James Diaz Technical drawings and paper engineering fundamentals reveal the mathematics behind movable book construction.
Mathematical Quilts by Diana Venters and Elaine Krajenke Ellison Geometrical patterns and mathematical concepts translate into fabric design through tessellations and symmetry.
Islamic Geometric Patterns by Eric Broug Construction methods of Islamic patterns demonstrate the application of geometry in traditional architectural design.
Geometric Origami by Faye Goldman Step-by-step constructions connect mathematical principles to modular origami forms through geometric analysis.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔷 The author, Robert Lang, is a physicist and one of the world's leading origami artists, known for bringing mathematical precision and engineering principles to the art of paper folding
🔷 The book explores tessellations in origami, which are patterns created by folding a single sheet of paper to create repeating designs - a technique pioneered by Shuzo Fujimoto in the 1970s
🔷 Lang developed computer software called TreeMaker that helps design complex origami figures by calculating the necessary crease patterns for any given design
🔷 The book includes over 200 detailed diagrams and photographs, teaching readers how to create intricate geometric patterns through systematic folding techniques
🔷 Many principles discussed in the book have practical applications beyond art, including satellite solar panel deployment, automotive airbag design, and medical stent technology