Tuesday, May 20, 2008

My Latest Kumihimo Necklace


I listed this braided Kumihimo necklace in my etsy shop today. I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out until I was a good way into the braiding because I made it with windowpane yarn. If you've never seen windowpane yarn, it looks like two strands of string connected by little ribbon flags. This was my first time using anything like it, and I love the way this necklace looks! I also refreshed myself on kumihimo history today so that I could answer a customer's questions, so here's a mini history lesson for you: Kumihimo is a centuries-old tradition, dating back to the days of the Samurai who used kumihimo braids to lace up their armor, wrap sword handles to create a secure grip, and to hang a sword on their belts. The Samurai warriors were expected to be able to repair their braids if they became worn or damaged, so by the time they were too old (or maimed) to do battle they were able to earn a decent living by making kumihimo braids.

12 comments:

Jackie said...

Wow...this is really nice. And thanks for the information and history.

I'll have to remember you this Christmas when I do my shopping!!

Thanks for dropping in!!:-)
P.S. Speaking of dropping in....I am new to this and just discovered today that I should approve all adds right away.

I am so sorry if I made you wait. I truly didn't know.

Hope you have a great day!!:-)))

:-) MaryLou said...

Really pretty! I keep wanting to do kumihomo, but I haven't bought that little tool yet.

I'm off to your Etsy shop to see a closeup!

:-)

Jean9 said...

This is such an attractive necklace I liked reading the history as well. Thank you for dropping in on me.

Anonymous said...

Very nice necklace! And thanks for the history info, too. I had no idea there were special ties for samurai armor. Now I can go impress my friend who is taking Japanese (and thinks he knows it all). *grin*

Jessica R. said...

That's gorgeous! Love your site!

Heather said...

thanks for visiting my blog and commenting. I love the color of this piece - I hope it sells fast for you! It is such a noble necklace :)

Anonymous said...

Sure is a nice looking necklace. Wonder if it goes well with the Kimono series I am currently blogging about?

Unknown said...

Wow the necklace is beautiful! I'll be checking out your etsy store!

Thanks for stopping by via Entrecard!

Anonymous said...

I love the color you chose as well, it's very pretty!!

Beat Black said...

I found your blog through entrecard.. i guess it really does work! thats a beautiful necklace :)

Unknown said...

I love that you give history on your jewelry. I wish I had the money I would buy that peice from you.

I love anything with blue, purple, and jade like colors in it.

Thanks for dropping in.

Natalia said...

That is a beautiful necklace. I have just started doing kumihimo. Would you mind sharing with me how you put your fasteners on? Where did you find those little ends to put the yarn/thread into and how did you secure them? I just spent an hour at Michael's looking around for something like that and had no luck.

Thanks!