Kumihimo, the ancient Japanese art of braiding, has wound its way into the hearts of beaders around the world. Beaded kumihimo is popping up in beaded jewelry designs using the newest beads and some very old braiding techniques. Some of the first kumihimo braids were made for soldiers who needed a way to secure saddles and gear to their horses, but these days, you’re more likely to see kumihimo with beads being used as handles for handbags, stunning necklaces made with gemstones, and fabulous beaded bracelets.

Beaded kumihimo makes a wonderfully portable craft, once you’ve loaded your beads onto the threads placed on your kumihimo disk. Using a small, lightweight foam kumihimo disk means that you can take your kumihimo projects along with you wherever you go.

Kumihimo supplies are easy to come find at your favorite local bead shop, too. Foam discs come in several sizes and shapes for different types of kumihimo braiding, and as long as you have a big-eye needle handy for loading beads onto your threads, you’re all ready to do kumihimo with beads! Once you have all of your supplies, browse dozens of beading projects in our free eBook by filling out the short form below.

A Creative Beading Technique

So, now that you’ve made about a hundred braids with beads, what do you do with them? Never fear, we’re here with these fun ideas for using your beaded braids for things like purse handles, beaded necklaces, and beaded bracelets. Have you ever learned a new beading technique that just sent you over the edge, creatively? Learn the versatility of incorporating Japanese braiding techniques into your beaded jewelry. Discover fun and creative ways to braid your way to your next masterpiece.

How to Kumihimo with Beads

With our step-by-step instructions, you’ll see how easy it is to learn how to do kumihimo with beads. Supplies are widely available at most local bead stores, and once you master these basic kumihimo instructions, you’ll find creative inspiration everywhere you look. Learning how is much easier than you might think it is. Your basic kumihimo braid only requires two moves of the cords to make a braid that you can use for bracelets, purse straps, and even spectacular beaded necklaces.

Kumihimo Techniques for Finishing

Every braid has at least one end that needs a finishing touch, either with a bead cap or some other jewelry finding to secure the threads and create a professional, polished look. Explore your options for finishing your beaded braids using peyote stitched tubes, basic wire wrapping techniques, and more! If you’re looking for different ways to finish those pesky ends of a beaded kumihimo braid, let Jennifer VanBenschoten clue you in to some great ideas. Explore inspiring ideas to finish your piece just right.

Free Kumihimo Bracelet Pattern

Learn the beautiful Japanese technique of kumihimo braiding while making a gorgeous bracelet to show off. This bracelet is bursting with color and while the technique may look intricate and detailed, this is a great project for any beader, beginner or advanced. This gorgeous beaded bracelet uses a variety of glass beads plus a creative finishing technique to quick riot of color that you’ll want to wear every day. This pattern is perfect for beginners.

Are you ready to try kumihimo braiding? Download your free eBook on kumihimo beading to get started on this collection of tutorials and a project that are sure to inspire. Creative kumihimo projects are at your fingertips! Enjoy!

Bead Happy,

Jennifer

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