What is kumihimo?

What is Japanese Kumihimo braiding?

The most prominent historical use of kumihimo was by samurai, as a functional and decorative way to lace their lamellar armour and their horses' armor (barding).

Kumihimo cords are very versatile and apart from making jewellery they are also used as ties on haori jackets, for decoration on home furnishings and many arts and craft projects.

Kumihimo braids are created under tension so that they are tightly woven and the result is a thick strong braid that is surprisingly lightweight and flexible. It also has a lovely texture and feel dependant on the type of braid and materials used.

Kumihimo braided cords have been made for over fourteen hundred years in Japan. Based on techniques introduced to Japan from the Asian continent in the sixth century, these cords evolved in Japan in complexity, color and style as they were incorporated into increasing areas of Japanese life.