Secrets to Kumihimo
Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese braiding technique that’s perfect for making stylish, wrapped bracelets—and this video series makes it easy to learn. Jewelry designer Elaine guides you step-by-step, starting with basic braiding on round and square kumihimo disks, and progressing to more advanced designs. You'll also learn how to finish your bracelets with bead caps, ribbon end crimps, and other findings, plus how to add beads, pearls and even wire for extra flair.
An Introduction to the Artist
Get to know jewelry designer Elaine and discover how she embraced her creativity through kumihimo braiding. Her journey into jewelry making is a reminder that it’s never too late to try something new. Follow along as she shares her favorite techniques, tips and personal inspiration to help spark your own creative path.
Video 1: Simple 4-Strand Round Braid
Elaine shows how to make a wrapped bracelet using a 4-strand round braid. Get comfortable with the kumihimo disk, follow an easy, repeatable pattern and finish with cord ends and a dangle charm—a great way to start learning kumihimo.
Video 2: Simple 8-Strand Round Braid
Elaine walks you through an 8-strand round braid to make a bracelet with an adjustable lobster clasp. Learn how to add more cords, finish with cord ends and customize your colors while getting more practice with the kumihimo disk.
Video 3: 8-Strand Round Braid with Beads
Learn how to add seed beads and pearls to your kumihimo braid, then finish the bracelet with decorative bead caps and an S-clasp for a polished look.
Video 4: 10-Strand Flat Braid
Explore the square kumihimo disk as Elaine demonstrates a 10-strand flat braid to create a wrapped bracelet. Customize your colors, add ribbon end crimps and finish with a charm for a clean, stylish look.
Video 5: 10-Strand Flat Braid with Beads
Build on the flat braid technique by adding seed beads to create a wrapped bracelet. Elaine shows how to finish it off with ribbon end crimps and a charm for a polished design.
Video 6: 12-Strand Braid with Beads
Create a wrapped bracelet using the round kumihimo disk with 12 strands and seed beads. Elaine shows how to finish the design with wrapped wire and a lobster clasp.
Video 7: 12-Strand Friendship Heart Bracelet
Learn how to create a heart pattern within a 12-strand braid. Elaine shows how to finish the bracelet with cord ends and a friendship heart charm.
Video 8: 8-Strand Braid with Beads and Crystals
Using the round kumihimo disk, create a bracelet that sparkles with crystal bicones and seed beads in a patterned braid. Finish it off with a twist cord-end clasp.
Video 9: 8-Strand Flat Wire Braid
In the final video of the series, Elaine uses the square kumihimo disk and mixed-metal Zebra Wire™ to create a striking flat braid. Learn how to finish with ribbon end crimps and a charm—bringing your kumihimo skills full circle with a bold, modern twist.
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