Designed by Carmi Cimicata for John Bead Corp and Perles et Cetera Winter 2016 Issue. This is the English translation of the step by step that appeared in French in the current issue of the Magazine.
This simple kumihimo disk has become the most loved tool in my studio. Made of foam, it is surprisingly sturdy. Kumihimo is an ancient braiding technique. Today, the classic 8-strand braid is easy to create with a variety of stringing materials. Most kumihimo disks come with instructions for this braid. Rattail is usually included because it the most common string used by kumihimo designers. It braids easily and is available in a wide selection of colours and several thicknesses.
I love the 8-strand braid and have tested it with virtually every stringing material I have in my stash. Thick and thin lengths of cording combine to create the most elegant braids. They look complicated and unique. This really appeals to me as a designer.
To create the three tiered necklace I set up three completely different braids. My disk looked different each time. For one braid I used Neo Chain and classic kumihimo polyester rattail.
My second braid features several different thicknesses of cotton wax cord.
The third braid is especially unique with one extra thick piece of Nappa leather cord, soutache cord, cotton wax cord and rattail.
The color palette for these braids was influenced by the announcement of the 2016 Pantone Color of the year. This is the first time they have selected two colours; Rose Quartz and Serenity.
2016 Pantone Color(s) of the Year.
I glued my three braids into a special large kumihimo end cap. I made sure to let this cure overnight before adding my lobster clasp in order to ensure that the three braids were permanently in place.
I think the necklace looks lovely on it’s own. The chain I added to one of the braids adds a tiny bit of glitter.
However, what is life without a little extra embellishment? As a jewelry lover I also have quite a few of these vintage brooches in my collection.
I added this over the top rhinestone brooch and felt quite satisfied with the final necklace. The brooch is in place with just its pin back, so it is easy to remove, replace or switch out for a different color.
Here is how the necklace appears in the current issue of Perles Et Cetera.
Products Used from John Bead Corp.
Kumihimo Circle Disk
Dazzle-it Rattail
Dazzle-it Cotton Wax Cord
Metal Complex Napa Leather
Kumihimo End Cap #23820105-01
Lobster Claw
Quick Grip Glue
More Information
If you go to blog.dazzle-it.com you will see over sixty posts I have written featuring kumihimo.
If you would like to see a video demonstrating the classic 8-strand technique go to this link.
