Description:

This Kongoh Gumi braided necklace, comprised entirely of Luxury Italian Soutache, is a winner. The rich  colors of the Soutache (Chocolate, Lichen and Avocado) paired with the Gemstone Donut pendant are perfect together.  The braid is a perfect size (not too fat and not too thin) and the hand, if you follow my tips, is slinky and luxurious. The Porcelain accent bead is a nice finishing touch. 

The Gemstone Donut Pendant comes pre-attached to the Lichen Soutache with a double Lark's Head Knot. Both sides of the Lark's Head Knot are pretty - you get to choose.

Please note, the Gemstones are each unique which makes them special. While the colors are the same, the patterns within the gemstones are not all the same!

The instructions are written for a 24" to 25" necklace (depending on braider differences). You can easily make the neck several inches shorter depending where you attach the end caps . It’s your choice. Some people like a longer necklace and some like their necklaces shorter. There is flexibility.

Kit Includes:

• Luxury Italian Soutache (12 yards in 3 colors))

• Gemstone Donut Pendant (40mm diameter) - pre-attached to the Lichen Soutache

• Porcelain Accent Pony Bead

• 8mm Bamboo Magnetic Clasp 

• Instructions with Photos

You will need: Kumihimo Mini Disk, 8 bobbins, tape measure, 1 1/2 oz counterweight, Fray Block (available at craft and fabric stores), sharp scissors and glue to attach magnetic clasp. I use WeldBond Universal Glue but you may use whatever you like. I get WeldBond at Michaels Craft Stores or Ace Hardware (try online). I use the standard thickness disk. I think a thick disk has too much "grab" on the Soutache. 

You should know: This kit assumes you that you are familiar with and can successfully braid the Kongoh Gumi Braid. For bottom starters that's "Left Bottom Up, Right Top Down, Rotate" and for top starters that's "Right Top Down, Left Bottom Up, Rotate". 

While the instructions are written for a disk, they are easily adaptable to the Marudai.

For those of you that haven't tried it, the Soutache is a delight to braid with. I make an effort to keep the Soutache flat while I am braiding and I think this makes the finished braid more spectacular! The Kongoh Gumi braiding sequence is easy, repetitive and very enjoyable.