Developing a mathematical model for bobbin lace

Abstract

Bobbin lace is a fibre art form in which intricate and delicate patterns are created by braiding together many threads. We present an overview of the making of bobbin lace, illustrated with a simple, traditional bookmark design. We briefly summarize research on the topology of textiles and braid theory, which form a base for the current work. We then define a new mathematical model that supports the enumeration and generation of bobbin lace patterns using an intelligent combinatorial search, and which is capable of producing patterns that have never been seen before. Finally, we apply our new patterns to an original bookmark design and propose future areas for exploration.