A , also called , is a frame used for making , a type of Japanese

braid A braid (also referred to as a plait; ) is a complex structure or pattern formed by interlacing three or more strands of flexible material such as textile yarns, wire, or hair. The simplest and most common version is a flat, solid, three-strand ...

. The braids created on the are flat (3D effects can be achieved) as opposed to the braids created on the which have a round or polygonal section. The threads are attached to weighted bobbins called ''tamas'' and lay on wood pieces with pegs that are called ''koma''. A wooden sword is used to lightly beat the braid once the braiding has been done. The braiding progresses on a 'V' front, as opposed to weaving on a regular loom that progresses on a straight front. The art that is worked on the takadai is a braid, not a weave. Although many of the patterns used on this braiding stand resemble the up and down motion of a weave, since each thread takes a turn at being both the weft and the warp, it is a braid. On the ''takadai'' it is possible to make intricate patterns using a technique called "pick-up braids". The braid has two sides of two contrasting colors and is usually linked on the edges. Then a pattern is formed by interchanging strands from the bottom braid to the upper braid, and by changing the braiding sequence.

Related terms

Kumihimo is a traditional Japanese artform and craftwork for making braids and cords. In the past, ''kumihimo'' decorations were used as accessories for kimono as well as samurai armor. ''Japanese braiding'', as is sometimes known in English, is also ...

組紐 - "kumi" from the Japanese verb, "kumu," meaning "to braid." "Himo" means "cord" or "string." May be written as くみひも、組紐、組み紐。 *

Marudai A is the most common of the traditional frames used for making , a type of Japanese braid. Etymology The marudai is generally made of a close-grained wood and consists of a round disk ( or "mirror") with a hole in the center, supported by f ...

- 丸台 - a wooden braiding stand with a circular top (''kagami'') which is pierced with a center hole. It is used to make a variety of braids, including round, square, rectangular, flat, triangular, and other polygonal shapes. * Obi - 帯 - a sash of varying widths, used to secure a

kimono The is a traditional Japanese garment and the national dress of Japan. The kimono is a wrapped-front garment with square sleeves and a rectangular body, and is worn Garment collars in hanfu#Youren (right lapel), left side wrapped over ri ...

. *Obijime - 帯締め - the cord used to secure the obi. *Tama - 玉 - weighted wooden bobbins used in all types of kumihomo except ''Karakumi''. The weight provides tension on the threads; this is countered by another weight suspended from the braid underneath the ''kagami.''

References

Books

* Making Kumihimo, Japanese interlaced braids, by Rodrick Owen * Comprehensive Treatrise of Braids V, Taka-dai braids 3, by Makiko Tada Braids Japanese weaving techniques Weaving equipment {{japan-art-stub