I was brought up in a family where arts and crafts were part of everyday life. Both my mother and grandmother knitted and crocheted to a very high level as well as making lamp shades and sewing and my father painted, made nets and his own flies for fly fishing. About 12 years ago I was bought a class in a local bead shop to learn basic stringing and I've not looked back. Since then I have progressed to Bead Weaving (also known as the dark side due to its complexity), Wire Wrapping and Soutache but it's been Kumihimo that has really grabbed my attention. I love the rhythmical motion of the braiding, it's so relaxing and also being able to use so many different combinations of beads and crystals to create unique pieces that stand out from the crowd.
I am member of the Braid Society and a Founding Member of the American Kumihimo Society.

is Japanese for "gathered threads". It is an ancient form of Japanese braiding, dating from around 550 AD, where cords and ribbons were made by interlacing strands using a round wooden loom called a 'Marudai'. The original Japanese Marudai were 16'' tall and were used whilst kneeling on the floor

Historically, Braided strands of silk were originally used to create these beautiful intricate cords, which were then used to lace the armour for Samurai warriors and their horses.

Later, in more peaceful times, they were also used to create beautiful ties for the womens Kimonos

In recent years this technique has been updated with the addition of a foam disk as an alternative to the Marudai. This has made Kumihimo much more popular as it is now far more accessible and easier for a beginner to learn. This popularity has also enabled more innovation in the use of the braids, one being the addition of beads to create unique striking.

​

---