The traditional Japanese Kakudai is designed to create hollow and shaped braids around a Kaku-shin (core). The braid is worked upward while suspended from an overhead pulley system, producing distinctive braids with twisted and dimensional elements.
Handcrafted from hard maple with a hand-rubbed shellac finish, the Kakudai – Japanese and Western Style includes both 16 in. (40 cm) and 26 in. (60 cm) leg sets. The shorter legs allow the braider to work in the traditional Japanese kneeling position, while the longer legs provide the option of braiding comfortably while seated in a chair. Changing between the two leg sets is quick and easy.
Traditionally, Kakudai braids are worked using 100 g and 240 g Tama. Each Kakudai includes three Kaku-shin (needle, flat, and square), two mirrors (large and small), and two weight bags, as shown in the product photographs. We recommend purchasing fishing weights locally for use as the counterweight.
For those wishing to learn traditional Kakudai braiding techniques, Kumihimo: The Essence of Japanese Braiding by Aiko Sakai and Makiko Tada is an excellent English-language reference and includes detailed instruction for the Kakudai.
Made in the USA by BraidersHand
