In Japan, where braids are traditionally dense and firm, 100 gram tama are commonly used on the Marudai, are recommended for the Ayatakedai, and can also be used on the Takadai.
Based on the shape of traditional Japanese tama, BraidersHand tama hold a generous amount of thread and are designed to minimize catching during braiding. Crafted from hard maple, they are polished to a smooth finish, lightly waxed, and securely sealed at both ends. Large Tama provide greater thread capacity than Standard Tama while maintaining the same weight. Large Tama are approximately 25% larger than Standard Tama while maintaining the same 100 gram weight.
Large Tama are available in 38, 70, 85, and 100 gram weights. Custom weights are also available by special order.
In Kumihimo: The Essence of Japanese Braiding, Aiko Sakai and Makiko Tada include instructions for thirty kakudai braids. Fourteen use eight 240 gram tama, while sixteen use twelve to sixteen 100 gram tama. This remains the only English-language book devoted to the Kakudai.
Handcrafted in Oregon by BraidersHand.
