01 / UNDERSTAND
Your design brief
A display needs a neat, recognisable pattern. Build a 5-column, 3-row arrangement of 10 mm square motifs with 5 mm gaps, then develop a second version for a different user.
What you will learn
- Distinguish an edge-to-edge gap from centre-to-centre spacing.
- Predict the overall size of a repeated arrangement.
- Compare two layouts against a design intention.
You will need: Forma, a ruler, paper and a calculator if helpful. This can remain a screen-based graphic design activity.
02 / EXPLORE
Make it in Forma
Menu names refer to the current browser edition. On a touchscreen, use Properties to show the inspector. A keyboard is helpful for exact dimensions.
Choose a context
Agree who will see the display and where it will be used. Sketch two pattern ideas before opening the software. The first measured arrangement will be a test piece.
Check: Write one visual aim, such as an orderly rhythm or a strong focal point.
Create a measured motif
Save current work and create a new drawing. Set millimetres and scale 1:1 in Drawing setup. Use Draw → Exact geometry to create a Rectangle at X 40, Y 40, Width 10, Height 10, Corner radius 0.
Check: The motif is 10 × 10 mm.
Predict before repeating
Calculate the width of five squares with four 5 mm gaps. Calculate the height of three squares with two gaps. Record your predictions before continuing.
Check: Count the gaps: there is one fewer gap than the number of motifs in a row.
Create the array
Select the square. Choose Arrange → Grid / circular array. Set Grid array, Columns 5, Rows 3, Horizontal gap 5 and Vertical gap 5. Choose Create array.
Check: There are 15 squares, including the original.
Check the prediction
With the array selected, inspect its overall W and H in Properties. If it differs from your prediction, inspect the motif size and the gap settings.
Check: The arrangement should be 70 × 40 mm.
Develop a second idea
Save version 1. Undo the array, change the motif or the gaps, and repeat it again. Explain how the change serves the display’s user. Keep the second version as a separate .forma file.
Check: Changing a gap changes the overall size even if every square remains 10 mm wide.
Review at the intended size
Compare the two layouts with a partner. Decide which better meets your visual aim and explain the decision. Export SVG if you need a graphic for a document.
Check: Your conclusion refers to the brief as well as personal preference.
03 / REFLECT
Check the design. Explain the decisions.
These ticks are temporary and are not submitted or saved. Keep your project file and written reflection as evidence.
Your design reflection
How did you calculate the total width?
Which version best suits the audience, and what is your evidence?
A little support
Build one row of three squares first. Use a paper strip to count the two gaps between them.
Take it further
Keep the first motif size but reduce both gaps to 3 mm. Predict the new size, then test it. Try a circular array and explain what stays constant.
FOR TEACHERS
Plan the learning, not just the clicks.
Suggested timing: 10 minutes for context and prediction, 20 for arrays, 15 for redesign and discussion. Forma’s grid-array fields use edge-to-edge gaps, not centre spacing. This is an opportunity to connect a formula to a visible design.
Evidence to look for
Predicted dimensions, both .forma versions and a justified choice of layout.
Suggested curriculum connection
England KS2 Design: communicate ideas with CAD. KS3 Design/Evaluate: develop and compare design proposals. Numeracy is an activity connection. Read the England D&T programme.
For other UK nations, use the curriculum adaptation guide. Ages and timings are suggestions, not equivalences between national stages.
Teacher discussion notes
Width = 5 × 10 + 4 × 5 = 70 mm; height = 3 × 10 + 2 × 5 = 40 mm. Pitch is 15 mm. At 3 mm gaps, the arrangement is 62 × 36 mm.
Original Forma2D activity · Specialised Laser Systems · Reviewed 5 October 2026
Keep .forma files for editing. Any manufacture uses the school’s approved materials, equipment and procedures.