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Can't get enough of those gorgeous Japanese braids, but cringe at the cost of silk? I have several suggestions! You must take a look at Presencia's Zirayon thread! It's a 12-ply thread with a diameter similar to #5 perle cotton, but with a sheen that will knock your socks off! Each 125-yard spool is $3.75. Best worked on the marudai.I have used Presencia's perle coton in sizes 3 and 5 on the Kumihimo disk and plate, with lovely results. Size 8 perle is terrific, if you are using the kumihimo braids for jewelry. Take a look at their variegated line in sizes 5 and 8! Watercolours by the Caron Collection, Silk & Ivory by brown paper packages, and Waverly Wool by Brown Sheep Company are also excellent choices that will go easy on your budget. What is Kumihimo? Kumihimo is a very easy, fast-moving technique that can be worked on a wooden marudai, or on portable foam disks. These come in two shapes; round, and square, more commonly referred to as a plate. Each produces different styles of braids. The round braids from the disk make terrific scissors fobs, key chains, and ID tag chains. The flat braids (produced on the plate) make terrific bookmarks. If you are an absolute beginner, I suggest starting with the disk. We offer both the disk and the plate with an instruction sheet for $10. We also carry the book Beginner's Guide to Braiding by Jacqueline Carey for $15.95. It's an excellent introduction to Kumihimo. Interested in a seminar? Let me know; I'll put you on my mailing list. Keep a needle and thread in your hands, and you'll keep out of trouble! All images and information depicted on this site are protected under copyright laws. Do not duplicate, use, reproduce, display or transmit any design or information without the express written consent of Michelle Hufford. © 2006 Michelle HuffordCome to the Point! |
