Celtic Key Patterns

Celtic Key Square

Celtic key (or maze) patterns figure prominently in a few past and a bunch of upcoming projects. So, I made a quick video with some basics on how I assemble those as vector art images.  I used Inkscape for these but, the principles are the same for any vector art program.

https://youtu.be/i3t1D0n9lbs
  • Celtic Key Square
  • Celtic Key Panel

Celtic Art: The Methods of Construction by George Bain

Celtic Key Patterns by Ian Bain

Celtic Pattern: Visual Rhythms of the Ancient Mind by Adam Tetlow

(Proceeds from associate links defray hosting costs for a local arts organization, Arizona Aikido.)

Quest Battery Pouch

Quest Battery Pouch
  • Quest Battery Pouch
  • Quest Battery Pouch
  • Quest Battery Pouch (back view)
  • Quest Battery Pouch (flap open)

Something I noticed pretty quickly with my new Oculus Quest VR headset is that it slips forward very easily, especially during the sort of very active games I got it to play.  It is pretty front-heavy.  So, some ballast on the back strap helps quite a bit.

I taped a battery pack I had on-hand to the back strap with gaffer tape to confirm that it helped with the issue.  I decided I really wanted something a little more elegant, though.  So, I designed and made this battery ballast pouch.

If you want to make one of these, the files are all linked below, along with instructions and a build video.

https://youtube.com/watch?v=N0blNbXbq9E

Instructions / Fabrication Notes

There are two pattern files: one for cutting the pouch from the faux leather and, one for the rigidity insert.

The purple square is where you would put any graphic you wanted on the flap.  You could actually use all of the horizontal space to the edges of the flap, if you wanted.  Anything farther towards the body (down) will bend over the top of the battery, though.

For engraving the JPP Saddle Collection faux leather on the Glowforge, I used 1000 speed, 30 power and 225 LPI.  You are on your own for figuring out settings for other equipment.

Everything else in the pattern is cut using 245 speed and 60 power.

I cut the 1/8″ acrylic for the rigidity insert with the usual Proofgrade settings on the Glowforge.

Design Files

These files are for personal, non-commercial use only. If you want to produce these to sell or for other business use, please contact me to arrange for licensing terms.  Also note that, by referencing these, you are agreeing to release any variations you create under identical terms.

Attribution-Creative Commons NonCommercial-ShareAlike

Quest Battery Pouch Pattern SVG

Quest Battery Pouch Rigidity Insert Pattern SVG

Resources

I know not everyone has a laser cutter but, many communities have maker spaces where you can get access to tools like laser cutters and, assistance learning to use them for free or, for a small fee or donation. Support your local communities, learn new skills and make new friends!

Find a maker space near you.

As I mention in the video, the Saddle Collection faux leather cuts great with a craft knife, screw punch, etc.  So, you could absolutely do this without any fancy equipment.

Of course, if you really want your own laser, feel free to use my Glowforge referral code to purchase your own. Glowforge will give you a discount off their posted price and, I will get a credit kickback to help defray the cost of materials for future projects. Your support is always appreciated.

Amazon referral links for some parts and incidentals defray IT and hosting costs for a local arts organization (Arizona Aikido):

Anker PowerCore Slim 1000PD Power Bank (rechargeable battery)

Magnetic Charging Cable

Screw Punch

“Saddle Collection” Faux / Vegan Leather

Industrial adhesive-backed Velcro

Industrial Velcro in Larger Rolls

Large Blunt Needles for saddle stitching

Waxed Cotton Cord for stitching

Spiraling Pop Up Card

Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card)

I sent this w-fold kirigami/origamic architecture pop up card out for the 2018-2019 holiday season.  I was inspired by the interplay of layers popping in alternate directions in some of Ingrid Siliakus’ designs.

Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card)
Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card)
Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card)
Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card)
Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card)
Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card)
Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card in white)
Spiraling (2018 Holiday OA/Kirigami Pop Up Card in white)

Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Card

Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card

This Viking longship OA/kirigami pop up card was some time in the making. I’m quite happy with it, especially the dragon head.

I made four custom rubber stamps for imprinting the sails (two dragons and two spirals, one for each orientation). The metallic ink takes a long time to dry (like a month). So, I embossed them with clear embossing powder and a heat gun. The tongue is painted red. Lots of fragile bits on these. So, they required careful handling.

Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card (Bottle Cap for Scale)
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card (Bottle Cap for Scale)
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card
Viking Longship Origamic Architecture Pop Up Card

Silver Snowflake Celtic Knotwork T-Shirt

Silver Snowflake Celtic Knotwork Unisex T-Shirt

During the holidays last year, I was looking through some of my old Celtic knotwork designs.  I came upon the original pencil sketch of my 1992 Snowflake design and, decided to print it in silver on some really nice black 100% cotton heavyweight T-shirts to give as gifts to family and friends.  They came out great and, were a big hit.

Special thanks to my good friend and wonderful, highly photogenic model, Tanya, for showing off the women’s fitted shirt for the photo!

Silver Snowflake Celtic Knotwork Women's Fitted T-Shirt
Silver Snowflake Celtic Knotwork Women’s Fitted T-Shirt
Silver Snowflake Celtic Knotwork Unisex T-Shirt
Silver Snowflake Celtic Knotwork Unisex T-Shirt

Of course, I printed more than I needed and, have some extra shirts, both in a standard unisex T and, a fitted women’s T.  So, those are up in the online shop, if you want to grab one.  There are limited quantities on-hand but, I can easily print more, if there is enough demand.

Silver Snowflake Unisex T
Silver Snowflake Women's T