Kumihimo Workshop

Join the Bartow History Museum and Paula J. Vester of the Peachtree Handspinners Guild for a Kumihimo workshop! Paula will teach you how to create a Kumihimo braid, an art form practiced across many cultures throughout history. Braiding has been used for strength and in various applications, including weapons, temple bell pulls, and clothing embellishments. Braiding arrived in Japan from Korea around the 7th century, where it became known as “kumihimo.” While many cultures developed intricate braids, Japan refined the tools for making them, including the simple, portable braiding disc that makes creating traditional and unique braids easy. In this beginner-level class, Paula will introduce you to Kumihimo braiding basics, along with a bit of its history. You’ll learn about the different uses of braids, as well as techniques and resources for making them. The class will cover the basic braid and explore variations and patterns. All supplies will be provided, and attendees will leave with several finished braids and ideas for future projects. Paula has spent 43 years spinning, weaving, and sharing her love of fiber arts. She has researched and experimented with yarns, dyes, and techniques, and has organized public exhibits, regional and national conferences, children’s summer camps, and workshops across the country. Paula is passionate about inspiring students to explore the world of fiber arts.