Islamic Tile Design

Islamic Art
In this project the 5/6s are tying together Social Studies, Math and Art! They are making a geometric tile design (based on their name) using repeating shapes and patterns. They viewed a slide show about characteristics of Islamic art and the variety of types of Islamic art.

A colorful, symmetrical pattern with geometric shapes features a central green square, surrounded by intricate Islamic designs in red, yellow, and blue.

A colorful geometric tile pattern with clover shapes and interlocking designs in pink, purple, green, red, and orange.

Islamic-inspired mandala featuring intricate geometric and floral patterns in shades of blue, green, pink, and orange.

An open white paper with a partially lifted flap lies on a gray, tile-patterned surface.

Step 1: Cut 12 x 12″ piece of paper. Fold in half then in half again.

A piece of paper folded diagonally into a right-angle triangle on a gray surface.

Step 2: Open and fold one more time, diagonally.

A folded piece of paper with "MARCIA" drawn on it in large letters, featuring a finger pointing at the bottom edge, resembles a unique tile design.

Step Three: Write your name on one triangle from top to bottom of the triangle. Use block or bubble letters.

Abstract geometric design in black and white with an orange hexagon at the center. Blue object at the top left corner, resembling intricate Islamic tile patterns.

Step Four: Use carbon paper to flip and flop and trace the name on to each of the triangles. The name will be a radial design all around. This is the trickiest part for the kids.

Colorful mandala design with intricate patterns and a central blue flower surrounded by red, yellow, and green details.

Finally, use markers to draw patterns on the shapes. Use the same colors/patterns on the same letters all the way around. We used regular markers and also Crayola Color Switcher markers for added pizazz.

Islamic-inspired geometric pattern with interlocking shapes. Includes blue, orange, yellow, green, and purple elements, creating a striking design.

Work in progress by 6th grader

Discover more from Art is Basic | An Elementary Art Blog

Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.

Bookmark the permalink.

4 Responses to Islamic Tile Design

Phyl says:

January 4, 2011 at 4:46 am

These are beautiful. I used to do something like this, but haven't for a while – and this has inspired me!

Diane says:

January 4, 2011 at 1:20 pm

Love this!!

Miss says:

January 18, 2012 at 3:16 pm

These are beautiful- this project will be an excellent addition to my mosque architecture lesson- thanks for sharing!

Pingback: Radial Name Designs: 5th & 6th Grade