One of the most exciting things about writing tutorials is seeing what other people make. A design can go in a completely new direction in someone else’s hands. A great example of this is Jamie North’s fabulous interpretation of my wire bracelet. Not only is the execution of the wire braiding really precise and even, but the choice of clasp …
When I designed the Luscious Lentils bracelet I wanted to make a bit of a statement with something bold and chunky. However, the instructions are just as effective when smaller beads or beads of different shapes are used. The pattern is very versatile and in this example I have used size 8 beads and 10mm daggers for a completely different …
It is always exciting to get a parcel in the post and especially when it is full of beautiful wire in great colours. As soon as I hit the ‘publish’ button on this blog I am going to get out my tools and start work on my next project. The smaller reels hold 0.3mm wire and the larger ones hold …
Traditional Japanese Kumihimo braids are made on wooden stands, the most common being the Marudai and the Takadai. Wonderful though these devices may be, they are also expensive. So a wonderful lady called Makiko Tada invented the foam disk, an inexpensive and easy to use device, which opened up the world of kumihimo braiding to a much wider and very …
This is what started the obsession off for me about four years ago. It is the first piece of my own Kumihimo, which found its way into a finished piece of jewellery. I was entering a forum challenge to create something inspired by a place. I thought of Tokyo in cherry blossom season and made a traditional tree of life …
I have had a couple of requests for some information about Kumihimo with wire, so I have added these two bracelets to the site as free mini tutorials. I love to use wire, but the technique is very different to the way Kumihimo is made with cords and yarns. The best way to learn to braid with wire is to …
I have been busy today adding content to the website. I am working my way through the suggestions made by visitors to the site, starting with the easiest! Several people have asked about adding beads to braids other than the Round Braid. While Round Braid is definitely the easiest and the most versatile braid it is possible to add beads …
We are all sweltering here in the UK as we experience the longest heatwave for 7 years, so I thought I would make something really cooling … a watermelon necklace. I think it shows a more playful use of Kumihimo braiding. I wish I could claim this braid pattern as my own unique design, but I have seen lots of …
I have been amazed and delighted by the wonderful reaction I have received on the launch of this website. Many helpful suggestions have been made as to how I can improve the site and I am working through them now. So far I have amended the instructions for one of the free mini tutorials and added pictures of all the …
Few things can compare with the sight of a magazine in the local newsagent with your own design emblazoned across the front cover. I know this because it has just happened to me! I am officially a cover girl and I am going to make the most of it! Not only am I pleased for myself to see my …
