Dear Friends of AKS, In spite of the COVID Lockdown, it is an exciting time for AKS. First, and foremost, we hope you are doing well and staying safe! And we hope you are braiding up a storm. Makiko’s revised Marudai “Bible” is available, Rebecca Combs has a new book released this week, and the Flower of Kumihimo in the 2019 edition of Gathering Threads is a popular new Octo Plate braid. We have some announcements covered in this newsletter: Registration is now open for the fourth and last installment of Carolyn Haushalter’s eStudy Group based on Catherine Martin’s book.AKS will host a Virtual Gathering in October!AKS announces the first annual juried art competition ‘Braid Not to Wear’, featuring contemporary, non-jewelry artworks. We hope you will participate in these new activities! RememberCheck the website often for news and updates, Happy Braiding, well and stay safe! Carol Benner, Newsletter Editor |

AKS Online Learning Center Intro to Marudai – Braids 9 – 12 by Catherine Martin Registration Now Open Registration is now open for the fourth and final class in the AKS Online Learning eCourse based on Catherine Martin’s book: Kumihimo Japanese silk braiding techniques. This course is Intro to Marudai: Braids 9 to 12 by Carolyn Oliver. In this segment, Carolyn Oliver Haushalter will cover the final four braids in Martin’s book: Kongo Gumi, Oimatsu, Shi-No-Nome Gumi and Mitake Gumi. It is not necessary to have taken the first three classes. Each of the four classes in this series stands alone as an independent class and will be offered separately. The first three classes are still available. To register separately for the final class or for each of the three earlier classes, click Here. See you online! |

Virtual Gathering 2020 is Coming Your Way!!!! Yes, you read that correctly! What: AKS is bringing together students, national and international instructors, presentations, studio tours, projects, kits and all those things you have grown to love about the in-person AKS Gathering. We won’t let this virus get us down! When: The first three weekends in October 2020. Where: In your living room or wherever you choose. What do I Need to Attend: A computer or tablet with either windows or mac, internet access and the Zoom app. Will I be able to choose my classes? All attendees will get full access to all of the classes and events. AND you don’t have to worry about missing anything – all of the activities will be recorded and available to watch throughout the Virtual Gathering! Stay Tuned! More Information to Follow soon. |

Announcement The First Annual AKS Contest “Braids Not to Wear” Get Your Creative Juices Flowing! Braids Not to Wear is a juried, virtual exhibit featuring contemporary, non-jewelry artworks. The exhibit will showcase artwork created using braiding techniques in all media, not to exceed 10 inches (25 cm) in any direction. The artwork, including mounting, framing, or display devices, should be able to fit inside a 10 in. (25 cm) cube. Braids must make up at least 50% of the artwork, and can use any materials – fiber, beads, metal, etc. – in the creation of the braids and/or as part of the sculpture. Five creative categories to choose from! All AKS Members with a paid membership are eligible to enter. Submission deadline: August 30,2020 Complete entry guidelines – CLICK HERE. |