Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese braiding technique that has been used for centuries to create beautiful braided cords and ropes for jewelry, clothing, and accessories. In this tutorial, you'll learn the basics of kumihimo and how to create your own braided designs using a kumihimo disk or a kumihimo braiding loom.
Materials Needed:
- Kumihimo disk or braiding loom
- 8 or 16 threads of embroidery floss or braiding cord
- Scissors
- Tape
- Weight (such as a small, round object)
Step 1: Setting Up the Disk
Start by securing your kumihimo disk onto a flat surface. Then, measure and cut 8 or 16 strands of embroidery floss or braiding cord to the desired length.
Step 2: Attaching the Threads to the Disk
Next, attach the threads to the disk by threading each strand through a different slot on the disk, then tying a knot in the center of the threads. To secure the threads in place, wrap a piece of tape around the knot.
Step 3: Braiding the Kumihimo Cord
Start braiding by placing the threads in the desired order on the disk. Then, use the weight to hold down the threads in the center of the disk, and begin braiding by moving the threads in a specific pattern around the disk.
Step 4: Changing the Braiding Pattern
To change the braiding pattern, simply rearrange the threads on the disk before starting the next braid. There are many different braiding patterns you can try, including the 8-strand round braid, the 8-strand flat braid, and the 16-strand round braid.
Step 5: Finishing the Kumihimo Cord
Once you've reached the desired length, stop braiding and tie a knot in the end of the threads to secure the braid. Cut off any excess threads and your kumihimo cord is complete!
In conclusion, kumihimo is a fun and easy-to-learn braiding technique that can be used to create a variety of beautiful braided cords and ropes. With just a few simple supplies and a little bit of practice, you can start creating your own unique kumihimo designs in no time!
