Letters: December 2020

I would like to invite readers to contribute ideas for my project to create a periodic table in the form of a blackwork embroidery sampler. Each element is represented by a unique pattern – a visual clue to the element. My designs take their inspiration from the element’s name, its discoverer or location of discovery, its structure, properties or uses, or from its alchemical symbol or the symbol used by John Dalton. The element pictured is selenium, named for Selene, the Greek goddess of the moon.

The project was inspired by the International Year of the Periodic Table, and in particular by the discovery of an 1885 periodic table at the University of St Andrews and the exhibition at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge, which included Mendeleev’s original publication among other early forms. It struck me that while most modern periodic table representations use colour – for impact, information or both – it would be nice to take it back to its original monotone and to delve into the history of each element.

I have completed the p-block and am working my way back across the transition elements. There are several elements for which I am struggling for ideas, and I anticipate that the lanthanoids and actinoids will be even more challenging. I would love to hear any suggestions you may have.