Braided Dragon Scale Bracelet

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Materials:  8 12-strand wires, 1.30 meters long,  5mm magnetic buckles,  a 3mm flexible tube,  401 glue.  Instructions:  Fold the 8 1.30-meter wires in half and secure them with thick wire. Add the 3mm flexible tube and wrap a 0.5cm thin wire around them to secure them. Place them in the weaving machine.  Arrange the wires. Using the black line on the weaving machine as the center, hang two wires on each side, four wires in each direction, for a total of 16 wires, as shown in Figure 8.  Route the wires. Set aside the 15*16-20*21, 16*17-21*22, 8*9-16*17, 7*8-15*16, 2*3-8*9, 1*2-7*8, 26*27-2*3, 25*26-1*2. Reposition the 21*22-24*25, and 20*21-23*24. Run this loop of yarn clockwise. Set aside 17*18 for 12*13, 18*19 for 13*14. 25*26 for 17*18, 26*27 for 18*19. 1*2 for 25*26, 2*3 for 26*27. 9*10 for 1*2, 10*11 for 2*3. Put 12*13 for 9*10, and 13*14 for 10*11 back in place.   Run this loop of yarn counterclockwise.   Repeat steps 3 ...
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The Complete Guide to Kumihimo Foam Disks: Your Essential Braiding Tool

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What is a Kumihimo Foam Disk?

The kumihimo foam disk is the modern, beginner-friendly version of traditional Japanese braiding looms. This lightweight, portable tool features:

  • 32 numbered slots around the perimeter

  • A center hole for securing threads

  • Dense foam construction (typically 4-6mm thick)

  • Standard diameters of 3.5" to 6"

Why Use a Foam Disk?

  • Affordable (typically $3-$8)

  • Portable - fits in a small bag

  • Beginner-friendly - easier than marudai

  • Versatile - creates multiple braid types

  • Durable - lasts for many projects

Types of Foam Disks

1. Standard Round Disks

  • Creates spiral/round braids

  • Most common for 8-strand braiding

  • Often includes printed guides

2. Square Plates

  • Produces flat braids

  • Used for more advanced patterns

  • Less common than round versions

3. Specialty Disks

  • Double-sided (round/square)

  • Extra-thick for stability

  • Color-coded slots

How to Use Your Foam Disk

Basic Setup:

  1. Cut 8 strands of thread (24-30" long)

  2. Tie together with an overhand knot

  3. Insert knot through center hole

  4. Arrange 2 strands in each cardinal position (N, S, E, W)

Standard 8-Strand Pattern:

  1. Move right North strand to left South

  2. Move left South strand to right North

  3. Rotate disk counter-clockwise

  4. Repeat sequence

Foam Disk vs. Traditional Tools

FeatureFoam DiskMarudai
Cost$3-$8$50-$200
PortabilityHighLow
Learning CurveEasyModerate
Braid QualityGoodExcellent
Setup Time1 minute5-10 minutes

Choosing Your First Disk

  • Size: 4" diameter is ideal for beginners

  • Thickness: 5mm provides good stability

  • Features: Look for numbered slots

  • Brand: Clover or Beadsmith offer quality options

Maintenance Tips

  • Store flat to prevent warping

  • Keep away from moisture

  • Clean with dry cloth

  • Replace if slots become stretched

Creative Uses Beyond Basics

  • Beaded braids: Add seed beads to threads

  • Multi-color patterns: Arrange colors strategically

  • Thicker cords: Use 16 strands (skip slots)

  • Flat braids: Switch to square plate

Where to Buy

  • Craft stores: Michaels, Joann

  • Online: Amazon, Etsy, specialty shops

  • DIY option: Cut from stiff foam

The foam disk remains the most accessible gateway to kumihimo braiding. With this simple tool, some thread, and basic instructions, you can create beautiful braided creations in minutes. Ready to start your first project?

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