Craft Notes is a collection of notes and reflections from our studio, where we share process insights and quiet observations around Japanese braiding and textile craft.
Learning Kumihimo Without a Teacher Six Reliable Reference Books for Independent Study Kumihimo is often described as a craft best learned through direct instruction.However, for… Read More »Self-Study Kumihimo Guide: 6 Essential Books for Learning Without a Teacher
“Kumihimo on the Marudai” is a Japanese–English bilingual kumihimo reference book designed for self-study.It explains 120 traditional marudai braiding techniques with clear diagrams, making it… Read More »Learning Kumihimo Without a Class-A Marudai Kumihimo Reference Book for Self-Study
What Is Kamon? Japanese Family Crests Explained Kamon are traditional Japanese family crests used to identify households through simple, symbolic designs.Rather than displaying power or… Read More »What Is Kamon? Japanese Family Crests and the Sense of Value Behind Them
What Is Origata Wrapping? The Meaning, History, and How to Use Traditional Japanese Gift Wrapping Today Origata is a traditional Japanese method of wrapping using… Read More »What Is Origata Wrapping? Traditional Japanese Gift Wrapping Explained
Sageo vs TsukaitoWhat Is the Difference Between Sageo and Tsukaito? A Practical Guide to Length, Function, and Proper Use Introduction: Why Sageo and Tsukaito Are… Read More »Sageo vs Tsukaito: Differences, Length & Proper Use
Samurai Exhibition at the British Museum, London From February to May, the Samurai exhibition at the British Museum offers UK audiences a rare opportunity to… Read More »Samurai Exhibition at the British Museum: Myth, Reality, and Japanese Craftsmanship
We ship orders worldwide from Japan using reliable international delivery services. International shipping from Japan can work differently depending on your destination country and ordering… Read More »International Shipping from Japan | How to Order from Our Shop Worldwide
Choosing colors for a kumihimo cord is often more difficult than the braiding itself.Each color looks beautiful on its own. Yet, the finished braid appears… Read More »How to Choose Colors for Kumihimo Cords A Practical Guide to Balanced Japanese Braids
Understanding Structure, Not Technique Introduction Many makers would like to create adjustable silk kumihimo bracelets without relying on metal findings. One common challenge they face… Read More »Why Silk Kumihimo Sliding Knots Loosen | Structure Explained
A Small Lesson in Japanese Practice Recently, I received an unusual order from overseas. A customer living abroad asked me to prepare a small item… Read More »When an Overseas Order Became a Shrine Offering