This work explains the ancient art of rope braiding in straighforward, step-by-step instructions and illustrations. It looks at two families of braids - Peruvian, traditionally used as slings for hunting or in war, and Japanese braids, known as "kumihimo". More than 50 different braid designs incorporate over 250 patterns. The equipment used to make the braids in this book ranges from small slotted boards to the traditional Japanese braiding stool, the "maru dai". Flat, round, square and hollow braids are shown, and instruction progresses from the most simple four-strand design through to eight- and 16-strand examples, building on skills learned at the beginning.

The Big Book of Sling and Rope Braids

Crafts, Hobbies & Home

Owen, Rodrick

Crafts & Hobbies

Cassell

Learn to make the decorative braids used in the sling-making traditions of Peru and Bolivia; this detailed guide, including 400+ step-by-step photos plus hundreds of diagrams, teaches the technique and over 100 designs for weavers, craftspeople, jewelry designers, basket weavers, and others interested in using braids for embellishment. In-depth instructions are given, along with clear diagrams; recommended braiding yarns for slings and kumihimo; detailed set-up instructions; and many fascinating contemporary applications. This book introduces a new piece of equipment, the core frame, and gives instructions for making it from wood and dowels. When the core frame is used with a braiding stand and bobbins, a wide variety of core-carrying braids become accessible to kumihimo braiders. Most of the braids, from 4 to 40 strands, can be made on the included 32-slot braiding card designed specifically for Andean braiding, and 50 patterns can be made on the stand without a frame.

Andean Sling Braids: New Designs for Textile Artists

Arts & Photography

Flynn, Terry Newhouse

History & Criticism

Schiffer Craft

This comprehensive, full-color guide features dozens of images of slings from various cultures, both ancient and contemporary. Slings had great significance in many cultures, particularly in the Andes, and were often used as both prehistoric weapons and herding tools. The book shows novice and experienced braiders how to make 50 designs, from 8 to 32 strands, on a braiding card or with a braiding stand and bobbins. Learn step by step how to make an authentic Andean-style sling with braided cords and a tapestry-woven cradle. A range of techniques useful for beginning, ending, and embellishing slings are included, and can enhance a wide variety of other items, like jewelry, garments, and accessories. This book is a key resource for historians, ethnologists, textile artists, weapons experts, and others to learn the practical skills for understanding sling braids' structure. Includes braiding card and plans to make core stand.

Sling Braiding Traditions and Techniques: From Peru, Bolivia, and Around the World

History

Americas

Unlock the secrets of a beautiful, ancient, and closely guarded Japanese craft. Kumihimo refers to all kinds of braiding; here, the focus is on Takadai, a term for colorful and elaborate single- and double-layered flat braids made on a high-stand frame, with a plain weave and twill structure. With more than 150 photographs, 70 charts, 25 illustrations, and easy-to-follow instructions, this collection offers an ideal introduction for anyone from weavers to embroiderers. Find out about the equipment, materials, and techniques; create color, weave, rep-weave, chevron, and textured patterns, plus braids with decorative edges; and make many designs to turn into scarves, bracelets, and other adornments. A Selection of the Crafters Choice Book Club.

Making Kumihimo: Japanese Interlaced Braids

Guild of Master Craftsman Pubns ltd

Takes a look at two families of braids, Peruvian, and Japanese braids, and shows more than 50 different braid designs incorporating over 250 patterns

Braids: 250 Patterns from Japan, Peru & Beyond

Unicorn Books