Constructing the Chartres Labyrinth

This is the only detailed instruction book for making a Chartres labyrinth on the market. By Chartres labyrinth it relates to the pattern found in the floor of the nave of Chartres Cathedral in Chartres, France, which was built in 1201. The original was made of limestone and marble. However, these days, labyrinths are made from many kinds of materials. Containing 43 drawings and illustrations, the text shows step by step the process for making the Chartres labyrinth. This includes demonstrating what to do, in what order to do it, and what tools to use. It shows how to construct certain tools and templates which make the job easier. The following subjects are covered in Constructing the Chartres Labyrinth: measuring, proportions, symbolism, variations, sacred geometry, the secret of the petals, pi, using masking tape, laying out the axes, marking out the labryses, drawing 12 circles, drawing petals, laying out and drawing the lunations using a special template, fudging, and a whole section on making canvas labyrinths. The canvas instructions include using Velcro, folding instructions, types of paint, painting tools, and using volunteers. The instructions also cover other kinds of materials. Modest in size, with a stapled binding, this book contains everything the reader needs to make a Chartres labyrinth. It describes not only what to do, but also why to do it, so that the whole concept is clear. It makes sense that this book is published by Labyrinth Enterprises, LLC, as it is the world's leading source of hand-made Chartres labyrinths, having made more than 800 of them in materials ranging from canvas to concrete. Its 8,000 sq. ft. studio in St. Louis, dedicated solely to drawing and painting canvas labyrinths, is the only facility of its kind in the world. Author Robert Ferre not only has made many Chartres labyrinths, he has also been to Chartres Cathedral 50 times over a period of 42 years. Look elsewhere on amazon.com for his blog and interactive materials. Robert gives master classes in the construction of labyrinths, especially the classical and Chartres designs. Whereas the Chartres pattern looks very complex, by taking the process step by step, making a labyrinth is within the reach of most readers. If you are hoping to make your own Chartres labyrinth, whether on canvas, grass, concrete, or some other material, this is the book for you.