How to make 50 fabulous Kumihimo braids A beginner's guide to making flat braids for beautiful cord jewelry and fashion accessories

In her second book, Kemp (Twist, Turn, & Tie 50 Japanese Kumihimo Braids) explores flat braids using a kumihimo plate. The plate, which is square and contains slots in which the thread is placed, enables the creation of a flat braid, similar to the traditional friendship bracelets that children make. The introduction provides a pictorial guide to using the kumihimo plate, selecting fibers for braiding, managing the threads, and starting and finishing the braid with knots, beads, and findings. The focus of the book is the projects, which are graded by skill level and feature numerous beginner-level designs as well as some for intermediate and experienced braiders. The pages have a consistent presentation, with braiding diagrams and instructions along the bottom, and supplies, tips, and techniques at the top. Ample color photographs, both close-up and full-view, show the detail and construction of each braid. Though bracelets are the first use that comes to mind for braids, Kemp explores a variety of uses for kumihimo, employing the finished braids as a basis for necklaces, bookmarks, and even shoelaces. A cardboard kumihimo plate is included with the book, allowing crafters to explore braiding with a square plate without investing in a separate foam tool. A template for constructing a square plate is also included-a nice backup for when the cardboard one is separated from the book. VERDICT This user-friendly introduction to kumihimo using a plate is an excellent companion to Kemp's -previous book. © Copyright 2016. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.