Any Dai Will Do
A Two-Day Master Class with Makiko Tada
Students may bring equipment of their choice; Marudai, Takadai, Ayatakedai, Karakumidai or Kakudai. Makiko will provide a project for each type of equipment based on student experience and interest. These projects will be different from any that will be taught during the 4-day AKS Gathering. This is a rare opportunity to learn from the master who literally wrote the books on every type of kumihimo equipment. This is a chance to do a deep dive and get advice to explore where you have been afraid to tread on your own. Makiko Tada will correspond with students by email prior to the workshop to determine their specific interests and goals, ensuring that everyone is fully prepared for a meaningful and productive learning experience.
Level of experience: Students should have prior experience braiding on at least one of the Dai listed in the class description. This class is designed to help you become more proficient with your preferred equipment or to expand your skills by learning to work on a new type of Dai.
Classes will be held:
Monday, September 21st and Tuesday, September 22nd, 2026
9:30AM to 5:30PM with a 1-hour lunch
Location is the Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport Hilton
3800 American Blvd E, Bloomington, MN 55425
FREE SHUTTLE FROM/TO MSP AIRPORT
Click Here to Make Hotel Reservations
Cost is $ 425
Includes lunch each day
Lottery Application Opens: Tuesday, March 24 at 12:00 PM EDT
Lottery Application Closes: Saturday, April 4 at 12:00 PM EDT
Lottery notifications will be sent to all applicants by April 9th
Click here to apply:
Makiko Tada’s 2026 Class Lottery
Classes with Makiko Tada at
The Gathering 2026
NOTE: Students may register for classes with Makiko Tada either at The Gathering 2026
OR
the Any Dai Will Do Master Class, but not both.
Also- Students may take a maximum of 2 Makiko Tada classes at The Gathering 2026.
All class registrations for Makiko Tada will be by Lottery
Location: Minneapolis/St. Paul Airport Hilton, Bloomington, MN
Winding & Folding Yatsu-se
Wednesday Sept. 23, 2026
2:00 – 5:00
Class Description:
Discover the versatility of these Yatsu-se braid variations. This technique lends itself to a wide range of jewelry and decorative designs. The repeatable pattern used in these braids make them easy to learn. Students will create samples in class or start a necklace to finish later.
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Two Color Braiding
Thursday Sept. 24, 2026
9:30 – 5:30 w/lunch 12:30 – 2:30
Class Description:
Learn new two-color braid design variations by Makiko Tada in this technique-focused class. Students may explore as many variations as they wish, with Makiko providing clear instruction and in-class demonstrations of each approach. Many participants will be able to complete a long braid during class; however, please bring a disk so your work can be easily prepped for travel if needed.
Coiling Edo-Yatsu
Friday Sept 25, 2026
9:30 – 5:30 w/lunch 12:30 – 2:30
Class Description:
Explore a brand-new coiling braid design from Makiko Tada, featuring two related techniques. Students will choose one version to work on, while Makiko provides full instruction and demonstrates both approaches so everyone learns both designs. Many students will be able to complete the project in class; however, please bring a disk so the braid can be prepped for travel if needed. Students may bring their own fibers if desired. Fiber supply list will be provided prior to class.
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Kumihimo Flowers
Friday Sept 25, 2026
9:30 – 5:30 w/lunch 12:30 – 2:30
Explore a brand-new coiling braid design from Makiko Tada, featuring two related techniques. Students will choose one version to work on, while Makiko provides full instruction and demonstrates both approaches so everyone learns both designs. Many students will be able to complete the project in class; however, please bring a disk so the braid can be prepped for travel if needed. Students may bring their own fibers if desired. Fiber supply list will be provided prior to class.
