Saturday, September 17, 2011

The Art of Kumihimo

Kumihimo cord was first created by a form of finger-loop braiding. Later tools such as the marudai and the takadai were employed to make more complex braids in shorter time. The most prominent historical use of the cords was by samurai as both a functional and decorative way to lace their lamellar armour and their horses' armor (barding). Kumihimo cords are now used as ties on haori jackets and obijimes, which are used for tying on an obi (kimono sash).
A modern kumihimo disk made of firm but flexible foam plastic with notches can also be used as a portable marudai. The disks have 32 notches that create the tension that is usually created by tama on a marudai. The disks are convenient but are not as versatile as the marudai. On a marudai, any thickness or amount of string can be used, but on a disk only 32 or fewer strand braids can be made. Also, marudai can make many types of braids, such as flat, four sided, and hollow. There are also rectangular foam cards, especially suitable for making flat braids.





1 comment:

Anonymous said...

A haori is a traditional Japanese jacket that is worn by both men and women. It is typically made of silk or wool and has a wide variety of colors and patterns. Haoris are usually worn over kimonos, but can also be worn with Western-style clothing.

Haoris are becoming increasingly popular as a fashion item in both Japan and the West. They are often seen as a stylish and unique alternative to traditional jackets and coats. While haoris were once only worn on special occasions, they are now commonly seen as everyday wear.