This is the most commonly used flat braid pattern because it is simple to master and produces a useful flat braid. The use of different colours can create V and X shaped designs in the braid. This can also be made with 14 or 18 cords, although it will be more difficult to achieve even tension with so many cords. The Japanese name for this braid is Une Gumi.
The numbering/lettering system does vary on plates from different manufacturers. The positioning of the numbers on some plates is obscured when the cords are in the slots and the numbers can become partially worn away. For these reasons it may be necessary to refer to the photos as well as the instructions.
1. Position 6 cords on the top of the disk in slots 3,4,5,6,7 and 8. Position 4 cords on the bottom of the disk in slots 14,15,16 and 17.
2. Move the cord in slot 5 to slot e and the cord in slot 6 to slot E.
3. Work with the cords on the left hand side of the plate first. Perform the following moves,
15 to 5, 4 to 15, 14 to 4 and 3 to 14
4. Now work with the cords on the right hand side of the plate. Perform the following moves,
16 to 6, 7 to 16, 17 to 7 and 8 to 17
4. The final part of the sequence is to move the cord in slot E to slot 3 and the cord in slot e to slot 8. The cords are now back in the starting position. Continue with this sequence until the braid is the required length.
It is worth practising this braid several times before embarking on a special piece of jewellery because even tension is essential to achieve straight edges on the braid. The moves from 5 to e and 6 to E are particularly important because they control the width of the braid. The more they are pulled up the thinner the braid. Being consistent with these moves will produce even width and straight sides.
It is fun to experiment with different placement of the colours to achieve different effects. This is the set up for the braid at the top of the page.
