Kumihimo Braiding: Your Complete Guide to the Ancient Japanese Art of Cord Making

Image
Have you ever wondered how those gorgeous, intricate cords are made? The ones you see decorating traditional Japanese clothing or adorning modern jewelry? Well, you're about to discover the fascinating world of kumihimo braiding – an ancient Japanese technique that's surprisingly accessible to modern crafters. Kumihimo braiding has been around for over 1,000 years, and it's honestly one of the most relaxing and rewarding crafts you can pick up. Whether you're looking for a new hobby, want to create stunning jewelry, or simply appreciate traditional crafts, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this beautiful art form. What Exactly is Kumihimo Braiding? Let's start with the basics. Kumihimo (pronounced "koo-mee-hee-mo") literally translates to "gathered threads" in Japanese. It's a traditional braiding technique that creates strong, decorative cords using multiple strands of threa...

Korean Flat Houndstooth Bracelet – 32-Thread Kumihimo Tutorial

 A Modern Twist on a Classic Pattern


This 32-thread houndstooth design is one of our newest and most stylish patterns, perfect for both men and women. The woven texture is sleek, eye-catching, and effortlessly fashionable.




What You’ll Need:

  • Two 4mm hoses (for a flat, structured look)

  • 32 threads total (16 of each color, 60cm each)

  • Rectangular disk (64-card slots)

  • Metal buckles & finishing clips

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Prep the Base

  • Lightly glue the two hoses together in the middle to form a flat star shape.

  • Carefully insert all 32 threads (alternating colors) into the hose.

2. Secure the Threads

  • Bundle the threads into the small starter ring and gently pull tight while holding the base firmly.

  • Use the rectangular disk to begin weaving—follow the two-by-two alternating color pattern (refer to the included hanging chart for guidance).

3. Weaving the Houndstooth

  • Start at Card #1, pulling the left thread to the right and filling gaps sequentially.

  • Pro Tip: Focus on thread position rather than color to avoid tangling.

  • For the final group, always pick the middle thread to maintain consistency.

4. Finishing Touches

  • Once you reach your desired length, remove the threads from the disk.

  • Wrap the ends tightly (0.5cm) and secure with the starter loop for a clean finish.

  • Flatten the hose with a clip, then attach metal buckles for a polished look.

Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ Trendy unisex design – Elevates any outfit.
✔️ Durable & structured – 4mm hose ensures a firm hold.
✔️ Beginner-friendly – Detailed chart and simple repeats.

Patience pays off! Though this pattern uses more threads, the result is a bold, high-end accessory worth the effort.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

7 Strand Kumihimo Braid Directions

Kumihimo Patterns for the Kongo Gumi Braid

Kumihimo Braids - Seven Strand Braid