Colleen Higham

Discipline: Jewellery

 I absolutely adore all manner of crafts.  My latest passion is beaded Kumihimo.

Kumihimo (Japanese for “gathering threads”) is a modern interpretation of an ancient braiding technique. Originally used by Buddhist monks (traditionally for the belt of a kimono) it was also used by Samurai Warriors as laces for their armour.

I stumbled upon a Kumihimo bracelet kit at a local craft fair and have been creating braids ever since, making necklaces, bracelets and earrings. 

I can spend hours at a bead show or searching the internet looking for that special focal bead; unusual bead colour or special thread. I have now started to incorporate wire, but being a bit of a perfectionist, this is still in the very early stages.

Depending on the exact technique and beads used the finished braids can be delicate and strong or chunky and soft. The results are individual and changes in tension can result in a totally different finished product.

 

Outlets

  • Allsorts of Odiham

 

Contact info

  • 01252 541172

  • 07711 554911

  • chcraftjewellery@btinternet.com