Isonit and its kinds

Isonit (“izonit” in the textbook) is a graphic pattern made with threads in a set order; it needs no costly material, only coloured threads and a firm base (cardboard, disc, plate). According to the textbook the method was created in the 17th century by English weavers who first stretched thread over nails driven into wood; sources give this history differently. The places to pierce the base are marked by dots drawn beforehand; an awl or pin and a thin sheet of foam under the base are used for piercing, and the thread ends are fixed at the back with tape or glue. To fill an angle, each side is divided into equal parts and the points are numbered; then a point on one side is joined by thread to the matching point on the other side in turn. A circle is filled by dividing it into equal parts; there are also rectangle, oval, spiral and shapes like the “bow” and “ladder”. Awls, pins and needles are sharp: use them only for the work, never point them at yourself or others, and count them into a box when finished.