Note: Components and tools listed within this INSTRUCTIONS box and the printer-friendly PDF, if available, may have been discontinued since
this project was published. Refer to the PURCHASE COMPONENTS and TOOLS AND OTHER SUPPLIES sections for current availability.
This design measures approximately 6.5 inches. To modify the length, simply adjust the number of beads added. Please watch our video below to help with sizing tips. You will also need a toothpick or scrap of wire for this project.
- Begin by watching our video: How to Braid Beaded Kumihimo and Make a Bracelet.
- Then cut four stands of cord, 8 feet each. Fold in half and tie an overhand knot.
- Place the cords in the disc as shown in the video and add your weight.
- Please watch our video: How to Create a Single Crystal Spiral in Kumihimo. You will then add the beads to each of the 8 strands and wind them around the bobbins. To the strand between the 31 and 32 add 2 seed beads, 32 crystals and 2 seed beads. Then to each of the other strands, add 36 seed beads.
- One you have your beads loaded follow along with the first video to begin your braiding. Begin the braid by braiding 1 inch of cord before adding the braids. Then continue braiding, adding the beads as seen in the video and finish with 1 inch of braiding without beads, same as you did at the beginning.
- Carefully take the braid off of the disc, trim the bobbins off and tie an overhand knot.
- To see how to finish with the magnetic clasp please watch our video: How to Finish a Kumihimo Braid to Fit into a Larger Clasp or Cord End. Take a length of super-lon cord and tie an overhand knot over the braided portion of the end of the Kumihimo without the beads. Tie a second overhand knot to secure. Then take the tails and wrap around the braided portion to bulk up the tail end. When it is the right bulk to fit in the well of the clasp, tie another knot to secure and trim the ends with your scissors.
- Trim the end of the braided portion so it fits inside the well of the cord end. Using a toothpick or scrap of wire, add a dab of E6000 to the well. Place the end of the braid into the cord end. Set aside. Move to the other end of the bracelet and repeat the above steps.
- Allow to dry unclasped for at least 24 hours before wearing for maximum bond.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED: (scroll down for purchase options)
- XCR-4624 - Super-Lon (S-Lon) Cord - Size #18 Twisted Nylon - Navy Blue (77 Yard Spool)
Project uses 32 Feet. You will need 1 package.
- DMRR-92411 - Miyuki Round Seed Beads, 8/0, 22 Gram Tube, #92411 Transparent Montana Blue
Project uses 1 Tube. You will need 1 package.
- PCC-1505 - Preciosa Czech Crystal, Bicone Bead 5mm, 32 Pieces, Crystal Aurum
Project uses 32 pieces. You will need 1 package.
- FCR-4247 - Magnetic Clasp, Tube Cord Ends Fits 6.2mm Cord, 1 Set, Gold Plated
Project uses 1 piece. You will need 1 package.
- XTL-1054 - E6000 Industrial Strength Glue Adhesive (0.18 fl oz)
Project uses 1 piece. You will need 1 package.
RECOMMENDED TOOLS:- XTL-6095 - The Beadsmith Lightweight Kumihimo Round Disc Disk For Japanese Braiding and Cording 35mm Hole
- XTL-6103 - The Beadsmith No Tangle Flexible Plastic Thread Bobbins For Kumihimo Or Macrame 1 7/8 Inch (8 Pack)
- XTL-6062 - Kumi Weight With Gator Clip For Kumihimo Braiding - 3.1 Ounces (1)
- XTL-0373 - Tulip Premium Scissors, Gold Handle 5 Inch, 1 Pair