Why Is My Kumihimo Braid Uneven on Marudai? Tips for Even Tension with 8+ Strands

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Your Kumihimo braid is likely uneven on the marudai due to inconsistent tension between your hands or among the individual strands. The primary cause is allowing the braiding rhythm or the weight distribution of the tama (bobbins) to become unbalanced. To fix this, focus on maintaining a steady, mirrored pulling motion with both hands and ensuring all strands move with equal resistance. An exception is when using mixed fiber types, which may naturally require different tension management. Key Takeaways Consistent Hand Motion is Crucial:  Maintain a mirrored, rhythmic "pull and release" with both hands to create even tension. Balance Your Tama:  Ensure all bobbins are equally weighted and hang freely without tangling to prevent uneven strand pull. Practice Proper Posture and Setup:  Your physical position relative to the marudai and how you manage strand groups fundamentally affects tension control. Diagnose by Section:  Isolate the problem by checking if unevenness o...
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Where to Buy Kumihimo Supplies: A Beginner’s Shopping Guide

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If you're ready to start your kumihimo journey, you’ll need the right tools and materials. Here’s a list of the best places to buy kumihimo supplies, both online and in-store.

Essential Kumihimo Supplies

Before shopping, make sure you have (or plan to get) these basics:
✔ Kumihimo disk (foam or plastic)
✔ Threads (embroidery floss, satin cord, or silk)
✔ Bobbins (to keep threads organized)
✔ Beads & charms (optional for decoration)
✔ Scissors & clips
✔ End caps & clasps (for jewelry-making)

Best Online Stores for Kumihimo Supplies

1. Amazon

🔹 Pros: Fast shipping, variety of beginner kits.
🔹 What to Buy:

  • Kumihimo Starter Kits (includes disk, threads, and instructions)

  • Satin Rattail Cord (great for smooth, shiny braids)

  • Plastic Kumihimo Disks (durable and reusable)

2. Etsy

🔹 Pros: Handmade & unique supplies, supports small businesses.
🔹 What to Buy:

  • Custom Kumihimo Braiding Kits

  • Luxury Silk Threads (for professional braids)

  • Beaded Kumihimo Supplies (pre-strung beads for braiding)

3. Fire Mountain Gems

🔹 Pros: High-quality jewelry-making supplies.
🔹 What to Buy:

  • Kumihimo Cords & Threads (nylon, silk, and metallic options)

  • End Caps & Clasps (for finishing bracelets & necklaces)

  • Beads for Kumihimo (size 6/0 or 8/0 seed beads work best)

4. Beadaholique

🔹 Pros: Great for beaded kumihimo projects.
🔹 What to Buy:

  • Kumihimo Disks & Marudai

  • Miyuki Delica Beads (perfect for intricate designs)

  • Kumihimo Jewelry Findings (clasps, cones, and crimps)

5. Joann Fabrics & Michaels

🔹 Pros: Available in-store, frequent coupons.
🔹 What to Buy:

  • Embroidery Floss (DMC or S-Lon cord)

  • Foam Kumihimo Disks (often in the jewelry section)

  • Beading Supplies (if adding beads to braids)

Specialty & International Stores

  • Jane’s Fiber & Beads (UK-based, ships worldwide)

  • Kumihimo Australia (for Aussie crafters)

  • Local craft stores (check for Japanese craft suppliers)

Tips for Choosing Supplies

✅ For Beginners: Start with a kit—it includes everything you need.
✅ Thread Types:

Final Thoughts

With the right supplies, kumihimo is an easy and enjoyable craft. Whether you shop online (Amazon, Etsy, Fire Mountain Gems) or in-store (Joann, Michaels), you’ll find everything you need to start braiding beautiful creations.

Happy braiding! 🎀✨

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