Sulis Designs

Vendor Biography

Hello, very pleased to welcome you to my Kumihimo shop on The British Crafthouse  (TBCH).

I am Claire of Sulis Designs.

I was brought up in a family where arts and crafts were part of everyday life. Both my mother and grandmother knitted and crocheted to a very high level as well as making lamp shades and sewing and my father painted, made nets and his own flies for fly fishing. About 18 years ago I was bought a class in a local bead shop to learn basic stringing and I’ve not looked back.

Since then I have progressed to Bead Weaving (also known as the dark side due to its complexity), Wire Wrapping and Soutache but it’s been Kumihimo that has really grabbed my attention.

Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese braiding technique dating from around 550AD. Translated as ‘gathered threads’ it was used to make the cords for lacing the Samurai warriors and their horses armour by interlacing strands. Today these same methods are being used with the addition of beads to create uniquely striking jewellery.

I love the rhythmical motion of the braiding, it’s so relaxing and also being able to use so many different combinations of beads and crystals to create unique pieces that stand out from the crowd.

I am member of the Braid Society and a Founding Member of the American Kumihimo Society.

Claire xx