Kumihimo Wirework Made Easy

by Christina Larsen

[annieb123]

Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Kumihimo Wirework Made Easy is a new and refreshing look at traditional kumihimo worked with metal and mixed media threads instead of the traditional cords. Author Christina Larsen is a self taught jewelry artist with an active YouTube following. Published by F+W Media (partnering with Interweave Press) with an anticipated release date 11th September 2018, it's 146 pages and available in paperback format.

This is a tutorial book and includes clear full-color photographs to support and enhance the clear step-by-step instructions. The book is laid out in a logical progression, beginning with a general introduction followed by a chapter of tools and materials. The following chapters develop techniques, braid structures, and finishing and make up approximately 30% of the page content.

The individual project tutorials progress from simpler projects to more complex, but all of them are really beautiful and none of them look like beginner projects. Each project has its own chapter starting with a chapter heading listing measurements, all materials, and tools necessary for project completion.

I was really surprised by the breadth of the included tutorials. Bracelets are what spring to mind for me when I think of kumihimo but this book includes earrings, necklaces (and not just torcs), and even rings. All of them are rich looking and lovely.

My only (small) quibble with the book was the lack of any supplier links or recommendations. In the age of e-tailers and internet supplies, that's certainly not a big hurdle.

This is a genuinely useful addition to the wireworker's library.

Four stars

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes