Kumihimo 2.0 - Crafting Tomorrow with the Wisdom of Yesterday

I became an avid kumihimo braider in 2016 after recovering from multiple surgeries. I had recently discovered kumihimo fiber braiding so purchased a disk, satin cord and some ribbons and began making basic cords I thought were just pretty - I had no idea what to do with them but really enjoyed the repetitive movements and end results. As I explored designs and different teachers on YouTube it started me down this path to learn more of this ancient Japanese craft.

Kumihimo always seems to be evolving in modern times. First with braiding of Obijime used to decorate Kimonos and more recently in jewelry with delicate silk or metallic fibers and now incorporating various glass beads. In 2020 we relocated to Maui and found ourselves surrounded by island beauty. Yet with Covid upon us we all stood back from our world. But I leaned forward into what was unfolding in my creative inspiration and braiding, and began experimenting with a variety of shaped glass beads, pearls, sea urchin spikes, and even wooden beads. This new world I discovered immediately exploded and my creative mind was thrilled to work with my hands and let designs emerge. As you look into this form of art you too might discover a new lens with which to view your artist expressions. In the art of kumihimo the possibilities are endless. For additional information about Kumihimo take a look at the resources below: 

 As you look into this form of art you too might discover a new lens with which to view your artist expressions. In the art of kumihimo the possibilities are endless. For additional information about Kumihimo take a look at the resources below.

Here is a quick introduction: Fun Facts by Interweave

https://www.interweave.com/article/beading/kumihimo-origin-facts/

Trends in Japan:

https://web-japan.org/trends/11_fashion/fas202009_traditional-craft-braid.html

The World of Kumihimo

https://kumihimo.com/

Beadaholique is well known source for beginners:

https://beadaholique.com/blogs/techniques-guides/kumihimo-101-how-to-kumihimo

My First Inspiration is from Design and Adorn:

https://designandadorn.com/collections/kumihimo-kits

If you are a beginner I suggest you first start off with a kumihimo foam disk before purchasing the more expense Marudai stand which is what I use in most of my creations. This is a basic introduction to kumihimo braiding: