I start these braids with a plaited loop and finish with a Japanese knot, rather than using end caps. Of course you may prefer to use the new 4mm End Caps now in stock.
Keep an eye out! I'll do a tutorial on these in my next Kumi Kapers newsletter.
Nothing is more frustrating to me than having my threads tangle as I turn my work on the Kumihimo Disk!
Here's my top 3 tips to have you braiding like a Kumihimo expert.
1. For threads over 1 meter or beaded threads, the easiest and most efficient way is to wind them on to a set of EZ-Bobs.
2. No EZ-Bobs? Get creative with other kinds of bobbins such as embroidery thread disks, even pieces of card also work quite well.
3. If you are caught without any of these, simply wind into a butterfly knot.
If you are only using threads up to 1 meter long, there is no need for bobbins, simply run your fingers through the threads at regular intervals.
EZ-Bobs are so efficient at solving the problem. Apart from preventing the threads from tangling, they keep the beads from sliding off the threads, and make it easier to keep the threads as "smooth as silk". Because you're not worried about these problems, the braiding can be considerably quicker, meaning you can finish a braid quite quickly and then move on to another one.
When I first started braiding, I used embroidery disks which seemed to work OK. Then I discovered EZ-Bobs and couldn't believe how much more efficient they were. I also like the little tinkling sound that happens when using them.
What works for you? Please share what you have found easy to use in the comments below.
Tips for keeping flat braids flat when using the Kumihimo Disk
To keep a Flat Braid flat on the Kumihimo Disk, hold the braid itself under the disk. The disk will rest on top of your hand. Or you could attach some weights to the braid. The Flat braids tend to move around because of the type of moves. Holding it under the hole, keeps it stable.
Remember the disk is not turned during these braids.
There are other braids where this is helpful. eg: a very fine braid, or a spiral braid.
Wondering what to use for weights, try some fishing sinkers. I'd love to hear what you use.
Ever wondered how to restart your Kumihimo braid when you return to it?
For a beginner braider, and a Round 8 or Round 16 braid I'd suggest the first way as the easiest, however you should take note of the way the "point of braiding" looks.
1. The threads are in pairs when the disk is set up. If you have to put it down, do so after moving the Right Thread Down, so there are 3 threads at the bottom of the disk and just 1 thread at the top. The next thread to move will be the bottom Left Thread Up.
2. Take note of the threads at the "point of braiding" at the centre hole. You'll see the last threads moved are on the top, so the next move will be from the next pair of threads. It doesn't matter which pair you go to.
3. For more complex braids, complete the sequence of moves. The next thread to move will be the first move of the next sequence. Again take note of the "point of braiding".
Have you got another helpful idea or suggestion for finding your place?
Nothing is more frustrating to me than having my threads tangle as I turn my work on the Kumihimo Disk! 