Weaving a Cube

The example shown is a ‘3,1 cube’ made using strips of paper. A base is woven, four strips by four strips, over one, under one. (see fig 1) The base is always b + c which in this case is 3 +1 = 4. Bear in mind that four corner strands will need to be longer than the others. These are the ones that follow a spiral path up and around. The other weaving elements are shorter as they are making a relatively vertical journey to the top. Note: Chequer board effects do not work as the weaving elements do not meet up.
		Figure 1

It may help to secure the back with scotch tape at this stage. Mark on the inside the square of the base with the face of the chosen cube. (See figs. 1 and 2) Note: As this is marked out on the inside, the slope will be the reflection of the resultant cube. Fig 2 shows a 1,3 slope marked out. The final result will be a 3,1 cube (see fig 5).
		Figure 2

Fold up the strips against metal rule.
		Figure 3

Weave up the sides. Small clips may help at this stage.
		Figure 4

The completed cube. All the extra lengths of the weaving strips have been threaded away and trimmed.
		Figure 5

Other Materials

Cubes may be woven from a huge variety of materials. The two examples here are both 1,3 cubes made from (a) printer off cuts and (b) willow bark. These two cubes were made by Joanna Gilmour.
		Figure 6

It may be helpful to use a cube made from a net (see Cubes from Nets) as a former or even to have as reference while weaving the real thing.
		Figure 7