Take a closer look at the intricate processes and fine details of kumihimo, Japanese braiding, with a talk and demonstration by Jennie Parry, renowned UK-based kumihimo braider and President of The Braid Society. 

During the talk, Jennie will share her passion for the versatile marudai braiding stand giving those attending the opportunity to handle and watch how round, square, hollow and flat braids are made on this simple equipment. Using a marudai, the maker has great control and can vary the scale of the braids from the tiny to the chunky, using a range of materials to make a variety of beautiful and useful items including jewellery and upholstery trimmings. The gentle rhythmic movements make braiding a mindful process and a great antidote to our everyday busy lives. 

Following the talk, Jennie will continue to demonstrate kumihimo braiding using a marudai in the Library until 17:00. 

Expert braiders from The Braid Society will be demonstrating kumihimo in the Library on certain Saturdays during the exhibition period (up to 11 June 2023). More information about these drop-in demonstrations will be added to our website shortly. 

Booking tickets

Please choose a date below and click on the button to book your free ticket. You will be able to select your preferred demonstration time at the point of booking. 

The Braid Society

The Braid Society was founded in 1993 and has an international membership of beginners, professionals, tutors, historical researchers, collectors and enthusiast. The Society aims to promote the education and practice of the art and craft of making constructed or embellished braids and narrow band including kumihimo made on different stands.

Jennie Parry

Jennie Parry is a founder member and President of The Braid Society and President of the Association of Guilds of Weavers, Spinners and Dyers. She has been using Japanese braiding equipment since the mid-1980s, both as an integral part of her textiles and as an expressive art form. She has studied all 5 types of Japanese braiding equipment here and in Japan, but her firm favourites remain the very versatile marudai and takadai. She loves the making process and the ability to control the shape, colour balance, scale, and feel. Her braids have been exhibited in the UK, USA and Japan and she has given lectures and taught at International Braiding Conferences, Summer Schools and braiding workshops throughout the UK.

Booking Essential | Admission Free