The kumihimo disk, plate or the mini board work well with the plastic EZ bobs as bobbins. The disk, plate or mini-board can be used free hand or attached to a stand such as an empty spool to more closely match a maru dai. Braids can be done with all kind of fibers, but bonded nylon cords such as the C-Lon Bead Cord family are recommended when working with beads as they make durable braids. If you work with beads, the EZ-bobs are mandatory. As to the disks, try both sizes. The mini disk is a bit thinner so less durable, but you do not have to reach as far. Hand size is also a factor as to preferences. The larger disk is more firm but sometimes a bit too stiff for softer fibers. Having several disks give you the option of working on more than one braid at the same time. > Gift Sets - Kumi Kits - EZ Bobs - See Blog Post

Personal Note :: I first encountered the name 'kumihimo' in 1978 at a show when a textile specialist exclaimed in front of my exhibit that I was doing kumihimo. I had learned my braiding techniques from a sailor's book on knots. I got a marudai but gave it up as I prefer braiding by hand. I have since played with the disk, mostly for fun. The disks and plates are great because they are portable. They can be taken on road trips, to the beach or done on a couch watching TV. To learn a braid pattern, start with C-Lon Tex 400 Bead Cord, Satin Cord or Chinese knotting cord, then switch to other fibers such C-Lon Bead Cord/Nylon #18 and or C-Lon Micro Cord. Thinner nylon used in strands makes braids more closely resembling the Japanese braids made of silk cords. Silk, like the Madeira Floss, Kanagawa or Fujix Tire Embroidery Silks of course are great option, requiring a bit more care. For patterns I like Rodrick Owen's book 'Braids' (published in 1995 by Interweave). I also recommend the small EZ-Bobs to wind your cords and a mini clamp to hold the braid. If you use beads, the EZ-Bobs are a necessity, the small ones for small beads and the medium ones for larger beads and so on... Go > Playing with Kumihimo Braids

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