The Kumihimo disk is not a new invention, but it is now more popular than it has been for years.
What makes the Kumihimo disk so popular? Mostly because it is so easy to use. Braiding string can take hours. Holding on to one end while you are trying to braid the other can be frustrating and cumbersome. People have tried all sorts of tricks to keep one end down while they are trying to braid the other.
The Kumihimo disk solves this problem. The sturdy disk holds the thread securely in place as you move the thread over to create your braid. There is absolutely no strain on your hands at all!
So what are the best Kumihimo disks? Definitely the foam disks. Today, Kumihimo disks are generally made of foam. The early disks were made of wood, and while wooden disks are still available, they are not nearly as nice or easy to use as the foam kind. Some disks are also made of plastic, but those are virtually useless. Wood or plastic can easily snag your thread, but the foam is gentle, lightweight, and tough enough to withstand repeated use.
I encourage you to carefully read through this list of the top 5 Kumihimo disks to make sure you pick the right one. But first, we need to discuss how to actually use it! Then we’ll dive into our favorite disks.
How To Use a Kumihimo Disk
Using a Kumihimo disk to help you with your braid is very simple. Here’s how to do it:
The basic braid uses eight strands – two on top, two on the bottom, and two on either side. You simply tie the eight strands together and place the knot in the center hole. Each strand is then put into one of the slots around the edge of the disk.
You then take one strand from the top and move it to the bottom. Then one strand from the bottom and move it to the top.
Rotate the disk and repeat. As you move the threads and rotate the disk, the braid forms underneath.
Weights are used to keep the knot and braid underneath tight.
Using a Kumihimo disk for braiding is about ten times faster than traditional braiding. And the braid comes out perfect every time!
The 5 Best Kumihimo Disks
Below are our top picks for the best Kumihimo disks. We quickly realized that having a good disk is pretty essential to the overall enjoyment of your project. No one wants to deal with a flimsy disk or a broken one! Check out these great options.
Rank | Product | Description |
---|---|---|
1. | Bead Smith Round Kumihimo Disk | 3/8 inch thick foam, 32 slots |
2. | Bead Smith Double Density Kumihimo Disk | 6-inch diameter, extra thick foam |
3. | Cousin Round Kumihimo Disk | 5-3/8 inches diameter |
4. | Bead Smith Mini Kumihimo Disk | 4-1/4 inches diameter, 3/8 inches dense foam |
5. | Beadsmith Kumihimo Starter Kit | Complete starter kit with full-sized disk |
1. Bead Smith Round Kumihimo Disk
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This is the original design created by Makiko Tada.
The Hamasaki Kumihimo disk and plate set is made with 3/8″ (1 cm) super dense foam for durability.
The foam feels good in your hands as you work. It is very comfortable and holds your thread securely in place.
The high-quality craftsmanship that goes into each one of these disks and plates sets is second to none. They will not wear out easily.
It is a great starting point for someone just getting into this craft. This set comes with illustrated instructions and three project ideas to help you get started.
The six-inch disk has 32 slots around the outer edge for perfect, non-slip braiding.
Pros:
- Nice and thick ring that holds up well.
- Perfect for use with different sizes of thread.
- Tough and long lasting, yet lightweight and easy to hold.
- Brilliant value for your money.
Cons:
- Doesn’t always work as expected.
- Instructions can be a little confusing at first.
- When not handled properly, it tends to flex too much.
2. Bead Smith Double Density Kumihimo Disk
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Extra thick. Do you like things a bit bigger? Do you want a Kumihimo disk that you can really grab a hold of without worrying about it flexing or crushing? Do you like to use superfine thread or beads in your designs?
If this sounds like you, then this is the disk you have been waiting for. The double density Kumihimo disk is more than twice as thick as the original.
The 6-inch diameter of the disk hasn’t changed, only the thickness, density and size of the center hole.
This size works great with fine thread and beads. The extra-large center hole allows you to work with larger beads. It can be used with the regular Kumi Handle.
Comes with complete, full-color instructions.
Pros:
- The extra thickness allows you to work with finer threads.
- Better tension.
Cons:
- Difficult to use with small hands. You need to have big hands to handle it easily.
3. Cousin Round Kumihimo Disk
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The Cousin Kumihimo disk brings the ancient Japanese braiding style into the twenty-first century.
This super cool loom helps you create perfect braids every time. Every notch on the outer edge of the precision-cut disk is spaced perfectly, guaranteeing that every one your braid will be 100% perfect.
Whether you are making a friendship bracelet, necklace or any other cool creation, each one will be formed to perfection.
This is truly the error free way of making a braid. You can add beads or other objects to your design as you braid.
This round Kumihimo disk will make round braids. You need a square Kumihimo disk to make square braids.
Pros:
- Comes with complete instructions.
- Holds string snugly.
- Much better than the paper or wooden models.
- Loads of fun and easy to learn.
- Good quality.
Cons:
- This is the disk only, bobbins and weights must be purchased separately.
4. Bead Smith Mini Kumihimo Disk
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This cute little Kumihimo disk lis only 4-1/4” diameter. It is a much smaller version of the original.
At 4-1/4 inches, it might not sound much smaller, but you sure will feel the difference in your hands. It’s great for learning, especially for children who naturally have much smaller hands than adults.
The disk is made with the same 3/8” dense foam, so the braids will look and feel exactly the same as if you had made them on a larger loom.
The only difference is that the smaller disk is easier for some people to handle.
Plus, the smaller size makes it much easier to take with you. A 6” disk is pretty easy to slip into a knitting bag or backpack, but a 4-1/4” disk is even easier. Don’t leave home without it! Ans it is fully compatible with the handy dandy Kumi Handle (KDHOLD).
Thread is held nice and tight so you never need to bother with extra weights.
Pros:
- Thick but flexible foam that holds even tiny silk thread firmly in place.
- Less bulky than the larger size.
- Super convenient.
Cons:
- The smaller size may crowd your 1-7/8″ plastic bobbins.
- Not as durable as the bigger one.
5. Beadsmith Kumihimo Starter Kit
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If you are brand new to the ancient art of Kumihimo braiding, then this starter kit is a must have.
The Kumihimo disk in the kit is a full sized original.
You get the disk with complete instructions and project ideas, eight Bob-Eez no-tangle thread bobbins, Zap jewelry gel, one pendant slide, two end clasps, one toggle clasp, three yards of 2 mm cord and two jump rings.
This kit includes everything you need to learn how to make ultra-cool friendship bracelets and necklaces like a pro.
Pros:
- Includes everything you need to get started on your first project.
- The bobbins are 2.5 inches.
- The disc is 5 7/8″.
- Can be used with any type of embroidery floss or any thread you use on the original Kumihimo disk.
Cons:
- The instructions may be a bit confusing for a beginner.
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