This purple/burnt orange lamp-work bead turtle is the focal of this beaded Kumihimo rope only available from Akalei Designs. It was produced on Maui and is part of our Nature's Collection. We nestled the turtle with Cactus unicorn beads so it hands gently in the center. We also added 4 Coconut Lamp Work Bead up on either side of the necklace to add another unique feature. These lead another fun component in this by weaving two 8-Cord Braids one is Square and one Round. The colors are contrasting purple hues in a unique necklace lei. We blended different beads onto each side of cords so each is slightly different. Approximately 12,000 seed beads are loaded onto 16 cords that are then woven into this magnificent art necklace. This statement necklace is finished with a silver acrylic magnet end cap that has an extra strong hold.
The braiding pattern involved here is called Continuous Beaded Braid (CBB) and we use the Kumihimo style of Oimatsu. We have the instructions for making similar designs for those Kumihimo braiders interested in learning this unique braiding technique. See link here:
https://www.akaleidesigns.com/collections/kumihimo-tutorial-patterns/products/kumihimo-instructional-pattern-introductory-class-beaded-oimatsu-rope-marudai-only-copy
Our necklaces feel wonderful to wear and require little to almost no care by using a clean dry towel every few months to keep dust free and bright. This beautiful hand-crafted style necklace was made using hundreds of glass beads from around the world that are meticulously loaded onto multiple cords that are woven then together on a Japanese Marudai braiding stand.
Akalei Designs make great gifts for woman, girls, and men! Akalei is the Hawaiian word for "bead reflections" which captures this unique style only available on Maui. We specialize in designing a wide range of modern yet classic Hawaiian looking lei. For customized orders please contact me at info@akaleidesigns.com.
Kumihimo is an ancient Japanese braid making technique that creates beautiful and durable interlaced necklaces and bracelets. This art form goes back hundreds of years as braids were made for use in armor of Samurai warriors. In modern times these braids are used for belts (obijime) on kimonos
It is my goal to provide you with a long lasting, beautiful piece of jewelry that you will enjoy wearing for years to come. I take great care in the construction of my pieces to ensure just that. Please note: colors may slightly differ from their appearance on your display, as it depends on your monitor settings.
Please send me a message with questions or comments.
Thanks for stopping by!
Aloha Aku.
