Creating Kumihimo Bracelets with a Bohemian Twist: Tassel and Charms
Kumihimo, an ancient Japanese braiding technique, has gained popularity in recent years for creating beautiful and intricate bracelets. These bracelets are not only stylish but also fun to make. Adding a bohemian twist to your kumihimo bracelets by incorporating tassels and charms takes them to the next level of trendy fashion. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a beaded kumihimo bracelet with a bohemian touch.
To begin, gather the necessary materials including beading cord, a kumihimo disk, a weight, beads in your desired colors, scissors, a jump ring, a lobster clasp, a charm of your choice, and embroidery floss for the tassel.
First, cut eight strands of beading cord, each measuring approximately two yards long. Thread all eight cords through the center hole of the kumihimo disk, leaving approximately four inches of extra cord at the top. This will ensure enough length for finishing the bracelet later.
Next, arrange the cords in pairs of two around the disk, positioning each pair in North, South, East, and West directions. For a beaded kumihimo bracelet, add beads to each cord before placing them on the disk. String the beads according to your desired pattern and repeat the process for all eight cords.
Once your beads are threaded onto the cords, you are ready to start braiding. Follow the traditional kumihimo braiding technique by moving the cords clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on your preference. As you braid, make sure to keep the tension consistent for an even and tight bracelet.
Continue braiding until the bracelet reaches your desired length, leaving approximately four inches of unbraided cords at the end. Remove the cords from the disk, securing them with a weight or clip to prevent unraveling.
To finalize your beaded kumihimo bracelet with a bohemian touch, attach a jump ring and lobster clasp to one end of the bracelet. You can also include a charm of your choice by attaching it to the jump ring. The charm can be anything from a feather or dreamcatcher to a spiritual symbol, adding a personalized and bohemian flair to your creation.
Lastly, let’s make a tassel to complement your bracelet. Take the embroidery floss and wrap it around three or four fingers approximately 15-20 times to create a loop. Cut another piece of floss and insert it through the loop, tying a tight knot at the top. Cut through the loops at the opposite end to form the tassel. Attach the tassel to the jump ring on the bracelet using the excess floss.
With these simple steps, you can create a stunning beaded kumihimo bracelet with a bohemian twist. Experiment with different bead patterns, colors, and charms to suit your personal style. Whether you wear it alone or stack it with other bracelets, your unique kumihimo creation is bound to catch eyes and become a cherished accessory.
