Chunky Rainbow Kumihimo Necklace: Project Instructions

Create a bold and beautiful statement piece with this chunky rainbow kumihimo necklace! This fun, colourful design uses the traditional art of kumihimo braiding and combines it with bright beads for an eye-catching, wearable creation. Whether you're a kumihimo pro or a beginner, this project will guide you through each step to create a unique accessory.

MATERIALS REQUIRED

• 11 metres nylon knotting cord (we used purple)
• 7 large hole ridged tube glass beads (we used green, teal, light blue, salmon, purple, red and champagne)
• 14 x 6mm large hole round acrylic beads
• 2 x XXmm leather ends
• 2 x 6mm strong jump rings
• 12mm parrot clasp

TOOLS REQUIRED

• scissors
• big eye beading needle
• e6000 glue

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Create the 8-Warp Kumihimo Braid:

1. Cut the Cord: Cut 8 pieces of cord, each 1.3 metres long. Gather the ends together and tie a knot.
2. Prepare the Disk: Pull all the strands through the centre hole of the kumihimo disk, leaving the knot on the back side. Tighten the knot.
3. Set the Cords: Starting at the top of the disk:
   • Pull one strand through the slit to the left of number 32.
   • Pull the second strand through the slit to the right of number 32.
   • Continue positioning the cords around the disk in the following pattern:
     • 3rd and 4th strands through the slits on either side of number 8.
     • 5th and 6th strands through the slits on either side of number 16.
     • 7th and 8th strands through the slits on either side of number 24. You should now have one strand on each side of the black dots on your board.
4. Turn the Disk:
   • Set the disk so that 32 is at the top.
   • Move the cord between 32 and 1 to the slit between 14 and 15.
   • Move the cord between 16 and 17 up to sit between 30 and 31.
   • Turn the disk a quarter turn to the left and repeat.
5. Continue turning the disk and following the same pattern, moving the cords around until you have braided XXmm of cord trailing down the back of the disk.

PRO TIP:

If you need to pause while making your bracelet, always stop when you have three cords at the bottom. When you resume, start by taking the cord from the bottom left and moving it to the top left. This will help you keep your place!

2. Add the Beads:

As the braid will be quite close in thickness to the hole size of the acrylic beads, we recommend using a big eye needle to thread the cords through.

• Thread 4 strands through the needle, then string on an acrylic bead, followed by a large glass bead, and another acrylic bead.
• Remove the strands from the needle and repeat the process for the remaining 4 strands.
• After threading each set of beads, position them along the braid so they’re evenly spaced.
• We’ve used 7 different coloured glass beads, with similarly coloured acrylic beads on either side. The acrylic beads’ hole size will help lock the beads in place, ensuring they stay where you want them.

3. Finish the Necklace:

• Option 1 – Slip Over the Head: Since this necklace is quite long, you can tie a knot at the back of the necklace and simply slip it over your head for an easy, no-fuss design.
• Option 2 – Add Findings and Clasp:
  • Carefully cut off the original knot from one end of the necklace and cleanly trim the stray cords from the other end.
  • Apply E-6000 glue inside the leather end caps.
  • Insert the ends of the braid into the leather caps and let dry for 40 hours.
  • Use a 6mm jump ring to connect a 12mm parrot clasp to one side.
  • Finally, join a second 6mm jump ring to the other side for closure.

Finished & Fabulous!

Congratulations on completing your Chunky Rainbow Kumihimo Necklace! This vibrant, statement piece is perfect for adding a bold splash of colour to any outfit. Whether you're wearing it for a casual day out or dressing up for a special event, this necklace is sure to turn heads.

Don't forget, kumihimo braiding is a fun, versatile technique, and once you’ve mastered this necklace, the possibilities are endless! Be sure to experiment with different colour combinations and bead types to create more unique pieces.

© www.eurekabeads.com.au These free beading instructions may be used for personal use only. Visit www.eurekabeads.com.au for access to hundreds of free beading tutorials, creative inspiration, and expert tips. We are an Australia-based supplier, offering thousands of high-quality beads and jewellery-making products, with fast shipping Australia-wide. Explore our wide selection of beading materials, including glass beads, gemstone beads, findings, and stringing supplies to bring your projects to life! [EX98401]