Kumihimo

Scottish Country Dance Instruction

Kumihimo (Gathered Threads) 8x32 Reel for 3C by Sue McKinnell

1- 8 1C cross RH and cast off 1 place as 2C step up. 1C dances a half figure of 8, 1W dancing up between 2C and 1M dancing down between 3C.
9-12 All chase CW halfway.
13-16 1C dance a half RS reel of 4 with 2nd corners, giving RS to partner's 2nd corner position to begin and passing RS to face own 1st corner positions to end.
17-20 1C dance a half RS reel of 4 with 1st corners, giving RS to 1st corner positions to begin and ending 1W between 2C facing down and 1M between 3C facing up.
21-24 1C turn RH 1½ to end facing out the other end.
25-32 Reels of 3 across the set, 1C giving RS to 2nd corners to begin and ending in 2nd place on own sides.

Repeat.

(Dance crib compiled by the deviser Sue McKinnell, 2018)

Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams

Kumihimo - Full Size And Key To Symbols

Dance Information

I recently learned to do kumihimo and this dance reminds me of the movements in working the braids.

Kumihimo means gathered threads, the alternative name for this dance.

Suggested music: Capelthwaite from Thistle House Live.

(Dance information by the deviser, Sue McKinnell)

Kumihimo, meaning "gathered threads", is a traditional Japanese technique of creating intricate cords and braids by interlacing strands of silk or other fibres.

Historically, these braids served both functional and decorative purposes, such as securing samurai armour and adorning kimono ensembles. The craft has deep cultural significance and has evolved over centuries, maintaining its relevance in modern times.

The origins of Kumihimo trace back to the Jōmon period, where early forms of braiding were used to decorate pottery. The technique was further refined during the Asuka period (592–710 AD) with influences from Chinese and Korean textile practices. By the Heian period (794–1185 AD), Kumihimo had become integral to Japanese culture, used in religious ceremonies and by the aristocracy for decorative purposes. During the Kamakura (1185–1333 AD) and Muromachi (1336–1573 AD) periods, the samurai class utilised these braids extensively in their armour and weaponry, with a single suit requiring hundreds of metres of cord. The Edo period (1603–1868 AD) saw a surge in the craft's popularity, with the development of new patterns and techniques, and its integration into everyday attire through items like the obijime, a cord used to secure the obi sash of a kimono.

Traditional Kumihimo is crafted using specialised equipment. The marudai, a round stand, is employed for creating round or square braids, while the takadai, a rectangular frame, is used for flat or oblique patterns. Threads are wound onto weighted bobbins called tamas, which maintain tension during the braiding process. Modern adaptations include foam discs with notches, offering a portable and accessible means for enthusiasts to practice the craft.

In recent times, Kumihimo has transcended its traditional uses, finding a place in contemporary fashion and art. Artisans create jewellery, accessories, and decorative items, blending traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. The craft has also gained international recognition, with workshops and exhibitions promoting its practice worldwide. Innovations have extended its application into industrial design, where the strength and flexibility of Kumihimo-inspired structures are utilised in products like golf clubs and prosthetics.

Kumihimo Braid

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