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  • Getting Started with Kumihimo
  • Getting Started with Kumihimo
  • How to Do Basic Kumihimo Braids + Beaded Kumihimo

Getting Started with Kumihimo

The 8 Warp Basic Round Braid
Skill LevelBeginner
TechniqueKumihimo
Time1-3 Hours
This technique involves using different types of looms to achieve different types of braids. This tutorial shows an 8 warp basic round braid. author signature

Kumihimo is a form of Japanese braiding using various types of stringing material, often combined with beads to make exceptional jewelry. The term Kumihimo in Japanese means the gathering of threads. This technique involves using different types of looms to achieve different types of braids. The possibilities are endless and can be customized to suit everybody, so find your Kumihimo supplies and get started

When doing Kumihimo you will learn that using a different number of strands, as well as different colors, will change the overall look. Different types of stringing material can also change the look, as well as adding beads to all or some of the strands. Keep in mind that you may not want to use a stringing material that stretches.

In Kumihimo, each thread in one single "slit" is referred to as a warp. Here we will be using the round Kumihimo disk with 32 slits to create an 8 warp basic round braid. A good rule of thumb when measuring stringing material is to multiply the length you want by three. This will accommodate most designs unless you are using larger beads, in which case you may need to adjust the length. Once you have mastered the basic round braid, learn how to add beads to Kumihimo.

Step-by-Step Instructions Expand All Steps

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Nice choice! All or most of the products needed for this project are shown below with quantities. Sometimes we sell out of components and aren’t able to order more from the manufacturer (we know, it is very disappointing to us, too). Use the opportunity to mix up the design and make it yours by substituting similar products or altering the entire color scheme—it’s up to you!

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