Beaded Kumihimo Basics

Description

Learning the basics of beaded kumihimo braiding can be daunting. This technique is a true art form that requires the designer to plan each piece out beforehand. Braid length, bead selection, type of end caps, cord choice, and correct clasp are all decisions that need to be made before the cords are cut and the beads strung on.

Join Maggie Thompson for her web seminar that will guide you through the basics of this beautiful Japanese art form with the aid of photos and detailed instructions accompanied by live narration. Maggie will explain the basic equipment and supplies as well as the concept of "kumihimo math" that will help you braid successfully. Maggie will also highlight the various elements needed to make a braid and what goes into making your design decisions. By the end of this web seminar you’ll learn just how easy and rewarding it can be to design beaded kumihimo jewelry.

In this web seminar you will learn:

• A brief history of kumihimo braiding.
• Important information about basic kumihimo equipment and materials including cord, end caps and clasps.
• How to begin and end a braid successfully.
• Helpful "kumihimo math" tips to help you plan your braid length.
• Types of beads to use and their pros and cons.
• Basic braiding patterns and kumihimo braiding how-tos.
• And much more!

About the Artist:

Maggie Thompson is a self-taught jewelry designer who began designing with seed beads as a hobby 25 years ago. Five years ago she turned her passion into a business, Maggie T Designs. Although her background has been in beadweaving, she has become fascinated with the art of beaded kumihimo. She’s published one eBook with Interweave Press entitled Kumihimo Made Easy: 10 Beautiful Projects to Braidavailable in the Beading Daily Shop. She is currently working on her second eBook due out this fall that will contain intermediate and advanced designs. Maggies also invented "My Kumi Stand," a portable kumihimo stand in a carrying case (patent pending) for sale in her Etsy shop, Maggie T Designs. Maggie also works at Beadville USA, a bead shop in Chaska, MN where she assists customers and teaches classes year round.

 Who Should Attend:

• Anyone who wants to learn the basics of beaded kumihimo jewelry
• Anyone who has struggled with making a beaded kumihimo braid
• Anyone who wants to learn how to create beautiful beaded kumihimo jewelry