The Reuleaux triangle is special to me for both practical and symbolic reasons.

It maintains fixed bounds when moved along its edges. This means that using Reuleaux-shaped cylinders as rollers for a platform will keep it at a constant height, similar to using circular ones. Because this works horizontally as well, drilling with a Reuleaux-shaped bit produces a (nearly) square hole.

As a result, this unique shape fits well in the palm of the hand, and offers a sensory experience that can feel like a circle, square, or triangle, depending on how it’s handled.

Symbolically, the Reuleaux triangle is neither a triangle nor a circle. It is a “third thing,” reminding me to question simplistic classifications. Since Reuleaux triangles form at the centre of a three-circle Venn diagram, it also reminds me to consider how ideas intersect and overlap.

Engaging with the Reuleaux triangle can also be a contemplative experience, since many things worth considering come in threes. All in one, it is a worry stone, fidget toy, rosary, and a desktop reminder to embrace a “Yes, and…” approach to life.

Inspired by non-captive fidget sliders and drawing on my woodworking experience with toys and pens, I made a limited batch of Reuleaux triangle desk accessories from solid wood and rare-earth magnets.

Combining two triangles in this way opens up a range of movements by pivoting one or both at the intersection of opposing magnets, and a satisfying snap when the other magnets come back into alignment.

The process involved experimenting with a variety of materials and techniques, ultimately hand-carving and finishing each piece to achieve a satisfying look and feel.