What is Kumihimo 2.0
Kumihimo 2.0 refers to the evolution of Kumihimo from purely traditional cord-making into a broader, technology-infused, design-driven, global art form.
Traditional Kumihimo
Primarily made using fine Japanese silk fibers braided a maru-dai, taka-dai or kaku-dai stand. Earliest use was as a belt for Samuari Armour and then obijimi (kimono belts) and ceremonial & decorative knots.
Kumihimo 2.0
Kumihimo designs incorporating beads, gemstones, lamp-work beads, wire, leather, nylon, and satin. Can be made on a marudai or on foam disks, hybrid systems. Items created are used primarily for jewelry, wearable art, sculptural pieces.
Historical Lineage & Practice Circles
Japan centered, shared within families or lineage-house and shared vertically within a prefecturer then written books.
Global &
Multi-disciplinary
Community
Broad craft and weaving influences with cross-cultural conference visibility and cooperation. Expanded reach through use of PDFs, YouTube, Blogs, Digital Classes. Apps, Study Groups, etc.
Single & Multi-Strand Fiber
Single Strand – to Multi-Strand Silk Fiber Designs. Primarily used for decoration as accessories for kimonos as well as samurai armor. Dominated by the use of fine silks in varies colors and textures.
Mixed Media Enhancements
Emerging from a close-knit community to global multi-disciplinary cooperative craft that incorporates textural blends, embellishments, abstract structures and incorporating architecture to include glass beads, gemstones, metal/wire, pearls, and lamp work beads.
Traditional Kumihimo
Kumihimo 2.0
