Akalei Designs redefines kumihimo for a new generation, blending Japanese tradition with modern island inspired braid structures using an innovative approach in style.
Our "Kumihimo 2.0" represents an evolution of beaded artistry by merging braiding techniques with contemporary designs. Discover jewelry that is affordable, timeless and innovative.
Akalei Designs redefines Kumihimo for a new generation, blending Japanese tradition with modern bead architecture and structures using innovative materials.Akalei Designs represents the next evolution of braided artistry: advanced bead engineering, and contemporary design for shoppers (and kumihimo students) who seek beauty and innovation. Each piece is. handcrafted on Maui..
Blending and weaving of glass beads is an artform the jewelry world has just begun to explore. Additionally the form of braiding in Japan of Kumihimo has recently adapted that ancient braiding technique to incorporate all styles of beads, gemstones, and pearls. Akalei Designs, based in Hawaii, has helped to expand these two jewelry worlds resulting in vibrant jewelry designs filled with colors that inspire all artists to achieve new heights in the use of color and light.
Each of the designs in this collection incorporate the use of contrast to give the desired effect in a beautiful spiral Kumihimo pattern. In the center of the spiral are lentil or rose petal glass beads from across the globe (Japan and Czech Republic), On the outer edge of this design is a variety of unique shaped beads - they include gecko beads, long drop beads, and rizo or rice beads. As this is the most recent design we continue to explore new and exciting ideas that reflect our amazing Hawaiian world.