Instructor: Giovanna Imperia
This is a great opportunity to explore the creative possibilities of a small portable Takadai. This baby takadai, developed in Japan, is designed for one-layer takadai and ayataka-dai braids. The emphasis in this class, however, will be on takadai patterns which may present interesting jewelry design opportunities. To that end, students will be able to utilize a variety of materials ideal for jewelry: from thermoplastic, to wire. Time permitting, students will have an opportunity to experiment with appropriate finishing techniques.
NOTE: There are a limited number of baby takadai kits available. Students will need a baby takadai to participate in the class.
Class Video
Look Ma, I Shrunk the Takadai Q&A Recording
Baby Takadai Post Class Session Recording
Why to Use Fiber on Cones
Preparing the Warp to be Removed
Connect the Fiber to the Baby Takadai
Fusing Thermoplastic by Giovanna Imperia
Kit: $140.00 includes USPS Prioirity Mail shipping, USA only.
Kit contents: Baby Takadai with tou (sword), a set of 25 weighted EZ bobs (kit does not include the metal tama in the photo above), braiding material, instructions. Students will get one of either thermoplastic, thermoplastic with steel core, or polyurethane coated yarn (which is the one on the Baby Taka dai in the photo below). The idea is to send one of them at random so that students can share their experiences with each other regarding the different materials.
Supply Information for students not purchasing the Baby Takadai Kit: After all Virtual Gathering Takadais have been sold Adrienne Gaskell will be taking orders for a waiting list. Additionally, after Giovanna Imperia closes her store at the end of October, she will be advising of suppliers for the braiding materials.
Skill Level: Intermediate.
Prerequisites: Students must know how to measure yarn and set up kumihimo equipment including winding materials on tama. If planning to use wire, must be familiar with how to braid with wire. Takadai experience not necessary.
BABY TAKADAI KIT
The photo below shows the new and improved Baby Takadai made exclusively for AKS. Features the the ability to add koma (pegs) to the front as well as the sides transforming it into a Karakumi dai.