Beginner's Guide To Braiding The Craft Of Kumihimo
Braiding is a craft that has been around for centuries. It is a technique of interlacing threads, cords or yarns to create intricate patterns and textures. Kumihimo is a form of braiding that originated in Japan. It is a traditional technique that has been passed down from generation to generation. Kumihimo braids are made on a disc or a loom and can be used to make jewelry, accessories, and decorative items. If you are interested in learning the craft of Kumihimo, this beginner's guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started.
What Is Kumihimo?
Kumihimo is a Japanese word that translates to "gathered threads." It is a form of braiding that involves interlacing threads, cords or yarns to create a pattern. Kumihimo braids are made on a disc or a loom, and the technique can be used to create a variety of patterns, textures and designs. Kumihimo braids are often used to make jewelry, accessories, and decorative items.
Materials Required For Kumihimo Braiding
To get started with Kumihimo braiding, you will need a few basic materials. These include:
- A Kumihimo disc or loom
- Threads, cords or yarns of your choice
- Scissors
- Tape
- Weight, such as a small bag of rice or a weight specifically designed for Kumihimo braiding
Types Of Kumihimo Discs
There are two types of Kumihimo discs – round discs and square discs. The round disc is the most common and is easier to find. It is used for making round Kumihimo braids. The square disc is used for making flat Kumihimo braids. Both types of discs are available in different sizes.
Threads, Cords And Yarns For Kumihimo Braiding
When it comes to threads, cords, and yarns for Kumihimo braiding, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The type of material you choose will depend on the look and feel you want to achieve. Some popular materials for Kumihimo braiding include:
- Silk thread
- Cotton thread
- Nylon cord
- Hemp cord
- Satin cord
- Ribbon
Preparing The Kumihimo Disc
Before you start braiding, you need to prepare the Kumihimo disc. To do this:
- Cut eight strands of thread, cord or yarn. Each strand should be approximately 20 inches long.
- Tie the strands together in a knot, leaving a tail of approximately 6 inches.
- Thread the eight strands through the center hole of the Kumihimo disc, leaving the knot on the back of the disc.
Setting Up The Kumihimo Disc
Once the Kumihimo disc is prepared, you can start setting it up for braiding. To do this:
- Choose a slot on the disc and thread one strand of thread, cord, or yarn through it.
- Move to the next slot in a clockwise direction and thread the next strand through it.
- Continue threading the strands in a clockwise direction until all eight slots are filled.
- Make sure the strands are evenly spaced around the disc.
Braiding On A Kumihimo Disc
To start braiding on a Kumihimo disc:
- Choose a strand from the left-hand side of the disc and move it to the empty slot to its right.
- Rotate the disc in a clockwise direction so that the empty slot is now on the left-hand side.
- Choose the strand that is now on the left-hand side and move it to the empty slot to its right.
- Rotate the disc in a clockwise direction again.
- Repeat this process until you have braided the desired length. Make sure to keep the tension even throughout the braid.
Finishing The Kumihimo Braid
Once you have braided the desired length, you need to finish the Kumihimo braid. To do this:
- Remove the strands from the slots on the disc.
- Tie a knot at the end of the braid to secure it.
- Trim any excess thread, cord, or yarn.
Conclusion
Learning the craft of Kumihimo braiding can be a fun and rewarding experience. With a few basic materials and some practice, you can create beautiful braids that can be used for a variety of purposes. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced crafter, Kumihimo braiding is a technique worth exploring.