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Japanese Braiding on the Marudai and Takadai

Rodrick Owen, internationally known braider, will return to Springwater for a two-day workshop on Japanese braiding techniques on the marudai and takadai. The marudai is a versatile braiding stand; it not only is used to make the kumihimo braids from Japan but is also able to make the seafaring braids from Ashley’s book of knots, Peruvian sling braids and Victorian hair braids. The braids that can be made are round, square, hollow, triangular and flat, even changing from one shape or pattern to another while they are being made. The braids can be used in many ways for personal adornment as sashes or belts and for jewellery. They make good piping for clothes, upholstery, and cushions and can be used as curtain tie backs. Embroiderers use them, as do book binders for their intricate work. The reference text for the marudai workshop will be the book by Mr. Owen Braids: 250 Patterns from Japan, Peru & Beyond and books from Japan. The takadai is a unique piece of equipment that is thought to have been developed from the coin braiding stands used by the Chinese minority groups and the Mongolian nomads. Takadai braids are made in plain or twill weave structures; the braids are single or double layered and can be made in three dimensional or complex pick-up patterns. The Japanese make these flat interlaced braids to be used as obijime for the kimono. How we in the West interpret the uses for these braids is much different. The single layer braids are thinner, wider and, because they are made on the bias, more flexible than the marudai braids. The braids can be made for trim and edge decoration on garments, as ties, and sashes. It is possible to make the braids wide enough to be used as scarves and panels for clothing. Double braids are more durable for belts and guitar straps and the pick-up braids express your individual patterns. The reference text for the takadai workshop will be Rodrick’s book Making Kumihimo, Japanese Interlaced Braids and Japanese books.The work-shop is about flexibility and as far as possible will be tailored to meet the needs of each student. Space is limited, and early registration is strongly advised. Those with specific projects in mind may contact Rodrick before the class (rodrick.braid@virgin.net). A student “what to bring list” will be supplied to each student attending the workshop. Please indicate at time of registration if you will need a marudai or takadai.
Instructor: Rodrick Owen
Tuition: $275
Number of Sessions: 2
Day & Date: Sat & Sun, 5/24 & 5/25
Time: 10 AM – 4 PM
Code: VA2607Sp