Islamic Geometric Patterns

Eric Broug's book is the best place to begin studying the geometric basis of Islamic design, one of the world's great art traditions. There are a number of other good books on this subject that are worth having, but Broug's book is the place to start for those who want to actually develop the ability to make these patterns themselves, and who are not satisfied with just looking at examples of great deigns. This book gives the foundation, and is the place to start.Bourg begins his book with an explanation of the basic structures used in most Islamic pattern design, and then demonstrates, clearly, how to construct these basic structures with a compass and straight edge. The rest of the book presents a series of Islamic designs, taken from some of the most outstanding historical examples, and presents them by proceeding from the most simple constructions to the more complex. With each new pattern Broug starts by giving some historical background to the source in which the design is found. The explanations for constructing the patterns begin by referring back to the particular basic structure (previously demonstrated at the beginning of the book) on which that design is built. From the basic structure, Broug then explains how the design is developed through a series of easy to understand steps.Eric Broug is an excellent teacher of his subject, and everything is presented with clear and easy to understand explanations. If his explanations are followed carefully, the student will never feel confused and will never feel lost. The CD, included with the book, shows images of the sources from which the designs are taken, and much more.

Great for Islamic design lovers

Don't be intimidated by the complexity of the patterns. There are some very basic steps and everything is explained well. What's really amazing is that you only need a compass and a ruler. You don't measure angles or do any heady geometry stuff. It's just about how the most simple of lines can create the most stunning patterns.The CD rom is flash based and has patterns to color, templates for drawing the shapes, wallpapers, photos of examples of the designs (buildings) and a very cool thing which shows the sequence of how the patterns emerge.Age-wise I would say anyone 10 or over could do this. Little kids might not have the patience, but you never know. I've seen kids get entranced into coloring and drawing for a decent amount of time if they feel challenged.Keep in mind that this isn't a COLORING book, but has some things that you can color if you want. The book itself is paperback but of a sturdy kind -7" wide x 9 1/2" tall, about a half inch thick. The CD is in a pocket on the inside back of the book. I took it out and put it in a case just for safe keeping.Like I said all you need is a compass, a ruler and some paper. I have been using the staedtler student compass which is around 5 bucks. This has kept me busy for hours at a time and is very satisfying!

I became fascinated by the intricate tile-work I saw on a recent trip to Turkey and ran across this book in an English-language bookstore. Too expensive there, but picked it up from Amazon when I returned. The book begins by explaining how to construct the basic geometric shapes used in Islamic tiles and wood carvings (using only a straight edge and compass), and then how to combine them into intricate, repeatable designs. The author shows step-by-step how to reproduce 19 designs from historical sites around the world, with the construction ranging from easy to intermediate to difficult. The explanations and illustrations are clear. It does take practice, patience, and attention to detail to achieve the precision necessary to accurately reproduce the designs. There is a CD with the book that includes these instructions, as well as sample patterns, basic templates, a photo gallery, and desktop wallpaper images. If you are interested in the history of Islamic art, this is NOT the book for you. But if you'd like to know more about geometric design, especially in terms of learning the basics so you might proceed with your own designs, this book is an excellent beginning - useful for artists and art students, and perhaps even quilters.

Highly recommend this book! It has step by step instructions to create the geometric designs that are the basis for all Islamic designs. You only need a compass and a straight rule to draw the basic designs… just like the ancient craftsmen.

If you are into geomentry or have ever wondered the science and specifics of complex Islamic designs on Masjids, Khankas, madrassahs or doorways, this is a book to read cover to cover. It makes lot of sense to a lay man as well as to an expert in Islamic designs and architecture. I must say, on this topic, I have never seen or read a better book. Exquisite.I must add that this book was quite useful for my cousin who will be using this book for decorative designing on marriage halls !

Awesome - must buy

The intricacies of Islamic designs are simplified and explained so that anyone can translate them into their own personal projects. Brought has dissected classic motifs from notable Muslim monuments so that artists can interpret them to their personal designs. And added plus is the CD with a gallery and printable forms to use for your own work. It's a delightful book. Exciting and easy to use.