Kumihimo means "gathered threads" and it's a braiding technique to make cords. It's one of my favorite things to do in the evening when my family is watching television together. You need minimal tools- a notched disk, some bobbins and some thread or thin cording to turn into braided cord.

Kumihimo Basics and Beyond is a lovely book for absolute beginners to learn this interesting technique. It's written by someone who teaches classes in kumihimo, who knows the areas that new students get stuck and writes the book accordingly. It's one of those books that's almost as good as actually taking a class. Great photos with lots of clearly written instructions and tips.

The introduction covers the tools, findings and thread and cord types. It has a handy table which tells you the finished size of the cord and what size end caps you'll use with it.

The projects begin with weaving simple patterns to make into a cord necklace and how to finish the ends and glue caps on them. Then goes into how to stitch beads as accents to the finished cord to create more sculptural pieces. This whole section is fiber based braiding.

Then the section that beaders will love- how to make beaded cords. This section has lots of good projects and very clear photos for how to work beads into your cord to create a bead rope that can be used in all sorts of ways. It uses different sizes, types and finishes for different looks. It starts with a simple and plain looking rope bracelet and works up from there. There are pieces that incorporate crystals, tear drops and other shapes for unique looks. All very simple to make with the correct stringing and weaving pattern. One of the great things about kumihimo is that once you've got your loom set up, the rest is easy. Adding beads creates some fantastic textures, which are shown well in the projects.

I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn kumihimo. It's very clear and understandable. The beady focus makes it a great skill to add as a beader.

U.S.A. U.K.
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