Braid Pattern Applet

I wrote this applet to help me experiment with ways to braid around a handle. As such, it doesn't do anything but plaiting patterns (yet).

Select the number of strands in the braid at the bottom of the applet. You can use either the input box or the slider bar. Only even numbers between 4 and 36 are currently allowed. Press the ``Apply'' button once you have selected the number of strands.

Use the columns at the left to edit the pattern of individual strands. To lengthen the pattern of a strand, click on the ``+'' box above the strand. To shorten the pattern of a strand, click on the ``-'' box below the strand. Use the triangles above and below the strand to offset the pattern of the strand.

Click your first mouse button in the braid display to zoom out. Click your second mouse button (or shift-click your first mouse button) in the braid display to zoom in.