Kumihimo Bracelet with Seed Beads

Click here to download project sheet.

MATERIALS

  • Kumihimo Disk
  • 8 Kumihimo Bobbins
  • Size 8 Seed Beads (2 colors, A & B)
  • C-lon or S-lon cord

DIRECTIONS

PREPARATION:
Select 4 cords of equal length at least 4-6 times of length of your finished bracelet.  Find the middle of all the cords & tie together with an overhand knot.  You should have 8 cords of equal length.  Thread 4 cords with seed beads color A, thread the other 4 cords with seed beads color B. (about 5 in. of beads on each line to start - you can always add more beads).  Be sure to knot the ends of each cord so the beads do not fall off.  Wrap each of your cords into separate bobbins.

BRAIDING:
Position cords with color A beads vertically (notches 32, 1, 16, 17) & cords with color B beads horizontally (notches 8, 9, 24, 25).  Follow the basic instructions for the 8-strand round braid without beads for 1 in. (you will use this for adding your end caps).

BASIC 8-STRAND ROUND BRAID:
*Bring the top right strand straight down to fit in the slot next to the bottom right strand.  Bring the bottom left strand straight up to fit in the slot to the left of the top strand.  Turn the disk 1/4 turn.  Repeat from * until braid is 1 in.

BRAIDING WITH BEADS:
You will continue to use the same basic instructions but with beads on each movement.  *Pick up the top right strand, slide a bead down to fit UNDER the cord crossing over it.  Pull the right strand down to the slot next to the bottom right stand.  Pick up the bottom left strand, slide a bead up to sit UNDER the cord crossing over it.  Pull the bottom left strand up to the slot to the left of the top strand.  Turn the disk 1/4 turn.  Repeat from * until your bracelet is 1 in. shorter than your desired length.

Braid without beads for 1 in.   Remove from the disk.

FINISHING: Tie off ends 1/4 in. after the beads & at the end of the braid.  Measure your bracelet (remember that your clasp can add 1 in. to 1-1/2 in.).  Cut excess cord; add end caps or cord ends and clasps.