Kumihimo Production Process (Mitakegumi)

Below, we will show you the authentic Mitakegumi production process for Kumihimo — the art of hand-making traditional Japanese ornamental braided cords.

1. Threading

Dyed silk thread is wound onto a small frame.

2. Thread Matching

The threads are then twisted together to form a bundle.

3. Main Thread Winding

Cut the twisted yarn bundle to the specified length (1.7–1.9 times the length of the piece to be made), and wind the bundle around a ball with a jong (weight) attached. Preparation up to this point is the most critical work.

4. Setting the Balls on the Stand

The ball with the thread wound around it is set on the braid stand. The braid stand shown in the photo is a round stand with 24 balls. All the balls are of the same weight.

5. Assembling

The thread bundles are crossed alternately in a twill-like pattern at a specific pitch, interval, and pace to complete the assembly.

6. Braid Grain Checking

Sometimes, check the braid after it has been assembled. Check for any gaps or distortion. If any braids are not straight, they will have to be untied and reassembled.

7. Attaching Tassels

After the string has been assembled to the desired length, the ends are securely fastened with silk thread, and the tassels are slightly added with threads of the same color.