Book Review – All about Kumihimo Braiding
‘Beautiful Braiding Made Easy’
by Helen Deighan
Who loves Kumihimo? We sure do. This playful little disk took last year’s beading community by storm and its popularity just keeps on growing.
I’m sure the majority of you reading this article have explored the possibilities of the cuddly little disk. But how many of you have taken the time to get to know it quieter, somewhat squarer brother; the Kumihimo Plate?
But what’s the difference I hear you cry!
The plate is capable of producing a multitude of braid designs. In my opinion, the results do have a more masculine feel which makes it the perfect companion when braiding men’s jewellery, friendship bracelets, keyrings and such.
There is definitely less literature devoted to the plate, but for anyone wishing to try I would recommend the book ‘Beautiful Braiding Made Easy’ by Helen Deighan as a fantastic starting point.
Helens book walks you through the history of braiding and introduces you to an array of braiding patterns for both the round and square disk.
Her numbered instructions make it a perfect book for beginners, but even as an experienced braider, I found her projects to be both fun and original.
There is a slight hiccup with this book. The braiding disk Helen uses is larger and therefore has more numbers. Her layout didn’t match the layout on my board but to rectify this problem; I simply turned my disk over to the blank underside and wrote out new numbers which matched the layout of her board.
Do not let this put you off, the book is a must have for wannabe braiders and weaving wonders alike.
Kerri McKenna
In House Designer
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