How It Works
Cyclomat creates art through rotating motion. Understanding a few core concepts unlocks endless creative possibilities.
Cycloid
A cycloid is a curve traced by a point on a rotating circle. In Cyclomat, multiple rotating elements combine to create complex curves that would be impossible to draw by hand.
Arms
Each arm rotates at its own speed and distance. Think of them as invisible compass arms, each adding its own influence to the final path. Start with two arms and explore from there.
Frequency
Frequency controls how many rotations each arm makes. Whole-number frequencies create closed, symmetric shapes. Non-integer frequencies create spiraling, open forms. Frequency defines the family of the shape.
Radius
Radius determines how far each arm reaches. It controls the visual weight and proportion of the shape. Changing the radius creates variation within the same frequency family.
Phase
Phase shifts where each arm begins its rotation. Small changes in phase can create dramatically different results — transforming a flower into a star, or a spiral into a web.
Layers
A single shape is just the beginning. Layer multiple shapes with different colors, opacities, and blend modes to create compositions with visual depth and complexity.
Keyframes
Define multiple states for your shape and Cyclomat will smoothly interpolate between them. Watch plumes, tunnels and sweeps emerge from simple shapes.
Animation
Switch to animation view to configure random changes to the artwork over time. Watch static geometry come alive as forms morph and transform.
“Frequency defines the structure. Radius defines the expression.”
Once you internalize this, the entire system becomes intuitive.
Ready to try it yourself?
Follow the guided tutorials to create your first shape in minutes.