A braid (sometimes called a plait) is a three-dimensional structure created by interlacing a minimum of three strands of flexible materials such as yarns, wire, straw, leather or hair. In some cultures — such as in Japan — braids are constructed by using multiples of 4 elements (e.g., 4, 8, 12, etc.).  In other cultures, […]

A device used to allow the use of a core in a braid. Core braiding originated with Andean braids which are made in the hand; it was adapted for modern use by Rodrick Owen. A core stand is a device that sits over the top of a marudai and allows additional elements (inactive) to be […]

This braiding technique allows the craftsman to make a braid free-hand without the aid of equipment, although for long braids another person may beat the braid. Loops of threads are attached to a center point. The loops are then placed over the fingers. Interlacements are created by moving loops from one hand to the other […]

In many cultures (e.g., Native Americans) sashes, bands and straps are created using a technique called fingerweaving. No loom is involved in the process. Rather, threads can be arranged on a stick or bar, or knotted to a stationary object at one end. The rest of the threads hang freely. The artisan braids the threads […]

Also called slip knot, slipping hitch the half-hitch is the knot used to hold the threads on the Tama while braiding.  The benefit of this type of knot is that the length of the bundles can be adjusted while braiding without having to rewind the yarn on the Tama every time more length is needed.

The hekomi is a depression in the surface of the kagami (mirror) leading to a central hole through which working fibers pass. It is an important design component which allows the fibers to fall into place with little to no friction near the point of braiding (the point at which all the fibers converge).