VIDEO: KUMIHIMO: Japanese Braiding with Rodrick Owen

Kumihimo is a very versatile braiding technique. Rodrick begins by introducing you to yarns, tools and equipment, then reviewing the process for making a braiding stand (Maru Dai) from foamboard, which allows you to get started quickly with very little investment in equipment. You will learn how to read pattern layout diagrams as you prepare four separate warps, each with a different end treatment: tassel end, finger point (blunt) end, braided loop end, and wrapped loop end. You will learn how to read and follow braiding diagrams as you work four different braiding projects: 8-strand spiral braid, 8-strand square braid, 8-strand hollow braid, and 8-strand flat braid. Steaming and finishing techniques are also included. To give you ideas for the many ways braids can be used, Rodrick presents the work of many accomplished international braiders.

MATERIALS NEEDED: You can use many different types of yarn, ribbon, and wire to create beautiful and unique braids. Most of the supplies and other materials needed can generally be found in your home. If you wish to construct the foamboard Maru Dai, you will need three pieces of foamboard 20" x 30".

YOUR INSTRUCTOR: Rodrick Owen has been researching braiding techniques for 30 years. He teaches abroad, and his books, Braids: 250 patterns from Japan, Peru, and Beyond and Making Kumihimo Japanese Interlaced Braids, have given guidance to braiders worldwide as well. His approach to braiding makes this video suitable for children and advanced braiders.

VHS VIDEO, 115 minutes