Kirjahaku

A practical and inspirational guide to the many ways of combining beads with braids.

A Broad Look at Narrow Wares. From military braids to mouse traps, antique to modern and handmade to industrial: how centuries of skill have turned a piece of string into a work of art.

Braid embroidery is just one of the many wonderful textile traditions found in China. This book is intended as a snapshot of the technique, providing insights into its history and development. It considers materials and equipment, ranging from the made-for-purpose to household alternatives.

Kumihimo is the ancient art of Japanese braidmaking; admired for its dual qualities of usefulness and beauty, and associated with both fashion and the samurai. In this revised and updated edition of her classic instructional book, Jacqui Carey teaches the use of a marudai (round stand) to produce a variety of different types of braids, which can then be used to create countless combinations of colour, texture and material. Clear step-by-step photographs guide the beginner through each of the projects, and many inspirational examples of the variety you can create are shown. The rhythmic movements, feel and sound of the marudai in use make this traditional craft a soothing, absorbing and aesthetically pleasing experience; perfect for weaving a calm area in your day.