This is for a PDF Booklet of 19 Kumihimo patterns (with the 20th as a Blank Template to use for your own pattern). These Kongo Gumi Patterns are Hawai'i Island Inspired (names and colors) and is NOT for a physical necklace lei. Each pattern is intended for beginning to advanced Kumihimo braiders comfortable with Kongo Gumi structure on a Marudai or foam disk. Some of these are a simple change of combination of colors on various cords, while others (such as Pattern 1 shown) are Counted Patterns that need a bit more attention whlle loading these. All patterns can be blended as shown in the 2 Sampler Braids of Double Strands (one New Mexico Style and a Green Hues with Black/White style). These were made by combining various styles of Kongo Gumi with a combination of size 8/0 Glass Beads (colors, and different bead shapes) to make these designs. Users can come up with their own various Braids, Sizes & Shapes of Glass Beads (it can be longer or shorter by adjusting the number of beads used in the beginning and end sections). A sample of Pattern 1 is shown below. The Legend also shows the two colors used (Silver and Pearly White) and on Cord 4 every 16th Bead is a Pearl White inside a Silver Stripe. Other Patterns are easier and even more complex, so have fun with various blends you can achieve.
NOTE: Users should be comfortable with assembling beads onto a disk and removing the project to undo or redo as needed then returning the braid back to the Marudai or Disk. You will need to be comfortable adjusting counterweights as you braid and manipulating cords as you braid them. I offer an option to work with you for a 40 minute Zoom session ($50) to help you in the assembly or instruction on these designs. These are time consuming to make if you do a Sampler As Seen, but this is actually a lot of fun to create.
This listing is for PDF Instructions ONLY to make this “Kumihimo - Kongo Gumi Sampler” by Randy Spicocchi of Akalei Designs (with the use of CHAT GPT). If you need to purchase separate materials and supplies so if you need suggestions please send me a direct message to determine if I can assist you in acquiring these beads or combinations.
This tutorial is 12 pages, with DISK EXAMPLES with possible color blends. The photos enclosed are double strand braids made by me. All the recommended pattern details are included but NOT step-by-step instructions on Kumihimo Kongo Gumi Braiding to make a necklace (or bracelet ). This is a PDF Tutorial only, materials/finished materials are NOT included.
If you prefer we can join together to do a Zoom meeting for 30 minutes to review and help out with the pattern and production. Zoom time is billed at $50 for 30 minutes. Please email me at info@akaleidesigns.com for an Zoom Appointment or for questions on this pattern.
Copyright ©2024 Akalei Designs/Kumihimo Rhythms/Randy Spicocchi. All rights reserved. These instructions are for your personal use only. Please do not copy, distribute, lend or teach this pattern without the express written consent of the author. Reproduction and distribution of these instructions in whole or in part, in any form, without the author’s consent is strictly prohibited. If you sell your completed braid please remember to credit Akalei Designs (copyright owner) for this design. Thank you this is a fun project to learn and explore so many options.
