Use a rectangle to create tessellations by picking one shape for the entire project. Draw the shape on a piece of paper using a ruler and an angle triangle. Tessellation shapes must be identical to work properly. Draw images on each side of the tessellation. These images should be half of a whole image and should be designed to be symmetrical. For example, half of a butterfly could be drawn on one side. The butterfly is then finished when placed next to the corresponding side. Make sure each side has its own unique image.
The glide method starts with a simple shape, such as a square, and then adds lines to it to create a more complex shape. Draw a simple shape for your guide and then draw a simple line on the top of the square, such as the back of a fish. Reverse the line from the top and draw it on the bottom, using the same angles and shapes. The bottom line should be upside down and reversed from the original, so that the front of the top is at the back and the back at the front. Make a simple curve at the back of the shape that is then mirrored in the front.
The line method starts with a single line and then copies it to create complex interlocking tessellations. Start by drawing a single line, making it as complex as you want. Copy the line at the end of the original line but reverse it and turn it upside down. Create the angle you want to set for the tessellation. Continue copying the line, using the same angle and reversal method as before until you create a complete shape. Create as many sides as you want and draw shapes on the tessellation using the symmetrical drawing method.
Right triangle tessellations have the advantage of being capable of making other shapes, such as rectangles or even hexagons. They are also easy to make. Draw a right triangle using your rulers and angle measuring tools. Draw and color your images on the triangle sides, making sure they are symmetrical. Copy the triangles and begin fitting them together to create different tessellation shapes.