How to draw a simple Celtic triquetra using three circles

​In today’s blog, I will walk you through the steps for drawing a simple triquetra using three circles to get an equilateral shape. There are other methods you can use, such as using a square to map out your angles and intersections, but whichever method you choose, you will end up with the equilateral triangle as the base for this style of triquetra. (There are other triangles and triquetra shapes, but this tutorial is for the triquetra that is even on all sides.) In my method, you won’t draw this triangle, but if you connect the intersections, you will see that they unveil an equilateral triangle. 

All you will need for this tutorial is a compass, eraser, and paper, but I have provided a list below of supplies you may want for this and other drawing projects.


(Disclaimer: I am a Blick Art affiliate so this list contains affiliate links. If you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. I will only recommend products or services I use personally and/or believe will add value to my readers, so there is no conflict of interest.)
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Gather your supplies:

Drawing pencils
Markers
Blending stumps
Eraser
Click eraser
Ruler
Horse hair brush
Grid paper
Sketch pad
Tracing paper

Step 1: Draw a circle

Draw a circle using a compass and mark the midpoint of that circle.

Step 2: Draw a second circle

Mark a point on the circle’s circumference. This will be the center point of the second circle. Using the same settings on the compass draw a second circle.

Step 3: Draw a third circle

Mark the point where the two circles intercept at the bottom. Using the same compass setting, draw a third circle with that as the center point. Erase the parts of the circles outside the points of intersection.

Step 4: Draw parallel lines

Draw new lines parallel to the lines that are left. The parallel lines can be drawn inside or outside the triquetra shape, depending on your preference.

Step 5: Create the overs and unders

Pick a point where the lines intersect and create an “over” thread. Go to the very next intersection and create an “under” thread. Follow this thread, creating alternating overs and unders until you arrive back at the beginning.


Step 6: Stylize

Create shading, texture, outlines, and finishing touches for the design.

If you would like to see the video tutorial for this triquetra you can view it here. Please like, share, comment, and subscribe so we can grow our little community!

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