Kumihimo Beaded Braids

My journey into the Japanese art of Kumihimo (ku-me-he-mo), has taken braiding into the realm of jewelry design.  Working exclusively on a wooden Marudai, I incorporate glass, pearl, gemstone and precious metal beads in my beaded braids. 

Although I enjoy teaching, I am first, and foremost, a working artist selling my jewelry.  So, it is important that I use quality materials and develop techniques that ensure that my designs are durable enough to hold up to a lifetime of wear.

Because beaded braids are a relatively recent innovation to this ancient technique, there is little information available specific to the needs of the jewelry artist.  To fill this gap, as I develop new innovations, identify resources and suppliers, I will share my discoveries here, or on my FaceBook Fan Page.

I will share my innovations, patterns and techniques in my upcoming book on Kumihimo Beaded Braids for Jewelry. 

The journey continues .  .  .