Braiding With Beads On The Kumihimo Disk: Elevate Your Jewelry Design

The art of braiding has been a popular technique for centuries, not only for hair but also for creating intricate and beautiful jewelry. One such technique is braiding with beads on a Kumihimo disk. This unique method allows you to incorporate beads into your braided designs, adding an extra dimension and elegance to your jewelry pieces.

What is Kumihimo?

Kumihimo is a Japanese braiding technique that dates back to the ancient samurai era. The word "Kumihimo" translates to "gathered threads" in Japanese, indicating the method of interlacing threads or cords to create braids. Traditionally, Kumihimo was done by hand, using wooden stands or boards. However, with the advent of the Kumihimo disk, braiding has become more accessible and efficient.

Braiding with Beads: On the Kumihimo Disk

by Karen DeSousa (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21745 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	71 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Braiding With Beads

The Kumihimo disk makes it easy to incorporate beads into your braids. By placing beads on the threads before starting the braiding process, you can create stunning jewelry pieces with intricate bead patterns. The beads become an integral part of the braid, accentuating its design and adding an element of sophistication.

How to Braid with Beads on the Kumihimo Disk

To get started with braiding beads on the Kumihimo disk, follow these steps:

1. Gather your materials: Kumihimo disk, threads, beads, scissors, and a weight.
2. Prepare your threads: Cut the desired number of threads, ensuring they are all the same length. You can use different colors for a more vibrant design.
3. Thread the beads: String your beads onto each thread according to your desired pattern. Make sure to leave a small tail of thread before the first bead to secure it during braiding.
4. Set up the Kumihimo disk: Place the threads into the slots on the Kumihimo disk, evenly distributing them around the disk.
5. Braid the beads: Following the traditional Kumihimo braiding technique, interlace the threads by moving them in a specific order (clockwise or counterclockwise) over and under each other. The beads will naturally become part of the braid as you weave the threads.
6. Continue braiding: Repeat the braiding process until you reach your desired length.
7. Finish the braid: Once you're satisfied with the length, remove the braid from the Kumihimo disk and secure the ends with a knot or a jewelry finding.

Design Ideas for Braiding with Beads on the Kumihimo Disk

The possibilities for creating unique designs with braiding and beads on the Kumihimo disk are endless. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:

• Geometric patterns: Use different colored beads and thread them in a specific order to create stunning geometric shapes in your braids.
• Gradient effect: Select beads of the same color but with varying shades or sizes. As you braid, the beads will create a beautiful gradient effect, adding depth to your design.
• Accent beads: Add a few standout beads throughout your braid to create focal points and draw attention to specific areas of the jewelry piece.
• Metallic accents: Incorporate metallic or iridescent beads into your braid for a touch of elegance and shimmer.

Express Your Style with Braiding and Beads

Braiding with beads on the Kumihimo disk allows you to express your unique style through jewelry making. Whether you prefer bold and vibrant designs or delicate and subtle patterns, this technique provides endless opportunities for creating one-of-a-kind accessories.

So, grab your Kumihimo disk, colorful threads, and beads, and start experimenting with different patterns and combinations. Discover the joy of braiding with beads and elevate your jewelry designs to new heights!

Braiding with Beads: On the Kumihimo Disk

by Karen DeSousa (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	21745 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	71 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

People are surprised how easy braiding is to learn and the fabulous results you can get right from the start. But invariably they ask how do you do it with beads?

This book is proof positive that if you only learn one braid, the basic round braid, that by adding beads, you can make an astounding number of beautiful braids, none of which will look like the next.

In this book you're going to learn that changing the number of bobbins carrying beads can give you a different look. That changing the fiber will give you a different look. That changing the size, shape and color of the bead can make even the plainest of braids...extraordinary.

Braiding is simple. It s fun. It can be as inexpensive as you need it to be. There are a lot of good times in this book.