Learn all the basic technical skills required for Kumihimo, Japanese braiding, then expand your knowledge to introduce beadwork ideas, so you can combine the two concepts to produce new and original work. This is an introductory course for total beginners and refreshers.

During the course, you will cover:

• Equipment – what, why and how?
• Warp threads – what, why and how?
• Working techniques – how to braid and improve your style
• Braiding sequences – a variety of different structured braids and numerous patterns
• Pattern design – how to use the grid system to create your own designs
• Beads – consideration of various types
• Combination techniques – various ways in which beads can be worked with braids
• Design – options and ideas
• Finishing techniques – a range of fancy finishes and joins

The tutor will give an introductory talk on the first evening about what will be covered in the workshop and you can handle samples and look at design ideas.

By the end of the course, you will have produced a range of samples illustrating these points, with an option of producing finished items if desired (usually jewellery).

What students need to bring

• Marudai, bobbins, counterbalance weights, weight-bag, chopstick, S-hook, warping posts (see ‘from the tutor’ section below)
• Plenty of threads – Any type and thickness (from fine silk to chunky wool, as well as synthetics and fancy yarns – Please bring a good selection, including a range of colours) – some can be bought from the tutor
• selection of beads – Any type or size (rocailles, bugles, larger beads, pendants, etc.)
• Beading thread (optional)
• Beading tray or mat (optional)
• Footstool/cushion/box – to sit on if kneeling to Work, or to rest Marudai on if sitting on chair
• Comfortable clothing is also recommended – trousers or a full skirt

Available to buy

Available from shop:

• Beading and sewing needles
• Scissors – sharp and suitable for cutting threads
• A notebook and pen

Available from tutor: The tutor has some equipment for loan, but it must be booked in advance by emailing: [email protected]. Please specify which of the following equipment you need the tutor to bring for you: Marudai, bobbins, counterbalance weights, weightbag, chopstick, s-hook, warping posts or a complete set of equipment.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals.

It takes place in an upstairs studio, at the western end of the college building. A lift is available part way, plus two short runs of four stairs.

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)

Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm

Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

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