Exploring the math of awesome reversible knitting

Abstract: I am an enthusiastic mathematician specializing in reversible knitting which is a branch of knitting focussed on creating fabric that looks beautiful on both sides. This talk will explore concepts, definitions and axioms of reversible knitting. We will start with the two fundamental knitting stitches, venture into duality, symmetry, tiling and transformations and end with the “reversiblest” stitch pattern known, all in a Knitting Relatorium!

Although no physical knitting experience is required or provided, I will supplement the talk with a selection of knitted fabrics as examples of each concept.

Computer scienceMathematics

Audience: researchers in the topic

Relatorium seminar

Series comments: The name "Relatorium" combines "relator" with the Latin root "-ium," meaning "a place for activities" (as in "auditorium" or "gymnasium"). This seminar series is a platform to relate ideas, interact with math, and connect with each other.

In this series, we explore math beyond what we usually hear in standard talks. These sessions fall somewhere between a technical talk and a podcast: moderately formal, yet conversational. The philosophy behind the series is that math is best learned by active participation rather than passive listening. Our aim is to “engage and involve,” inviting everyone to think actively with the speaker. The concepts are accessible, exploratory, and intended to spark questions and discussions.

The idea of relatability has strong ties to compassion — creating space for shared understanding and exploration - which is the spirit of this seminar! This is a pilot project, so we’re here to improvise, learn, and evolve as we go!