Overview
Mizuhiki is a decorative thin cord made from twisted washi-paper, wrapped with various materials such as silky threads, shiny foils, and pearlescent papers. Mizuhiki is traditionally used to decorate celebratory and condolence gifts, as well as for New Year decorations.
With a wide variety of colors and types, mizuhiki is also used to craft traditional motifs such as cranes, turtles, and treasure ships by applying unique knots. Recently, it has been utilized in a broader range of applications, including modern decorations, accessories, and interior design.
During the class, you will learn about mizuhiki in Japanese culture and have the opportunity to express your creativity by creating beautiful accessories using the basic mizuhiki knot with the colored cords of your choice. Working with colorful cords and creating complex patterns may seem daunting at first, but you’ll be surprised by how meditative and rewarding the experience can be.
By the end of the workshop, you will have a beautiful mizuhiki creation to take home, a tangible reminder of the new skill you’ve learned and the wonderful experience you’ve had.
For the December 14th workshop, we’ll create drink markers using the Camellia knot, a refined and festive accent for any gathering. For the December 21st workshop, we’ll make miniature wreaths to celebrate Christmas in style.
Camellias are often depicted together with snow and bloom from winter to spring. They represent quiet, graceful beauty, and because they keep their leaves even in winter, they also carry the meaning of “eternity.”
We’ll work with the basic awaji musubi knot, taking our time to tie it calmly and mindfully. If you’ve made an awaji musubi before, you might enjoy adding more cords, which create richer layers of color and beautifully enhanced gradation.
Workshop Timeline (120 minutes)
- Introduction to Mizuhiki – 10 minutes
Its cultural background, and how to handle the cords gently. - Awaji Knot Practice – 20 minutes
Basic practice of the awaji musubi.
If you are a returning participant, welcome to try using additional cords for more color layers. - Camellia Knot Practice – 20 minutes
Step-by-step practice of the Camellia knot. - Choosing Your Mizuhiki Colors – 10 minutes
Please select the cords with your favorite colors! - Creating Four Glass Markers – 50 minutes
Make four Camellia-knot glass markers at your own pace.
If you need more time, you’re welcome to take the materials home to finish.
If you’d like to make extra markers, you can purchase additional sets of materials ($10 for every 2 markers)
6. Closing – 10 minutes
Photo time, Q&A, and information about upcoming workshops.
What you’ll get:
– A set of drink markers in your favorite colors, which can be for yourself or used as a gift.
– You will learn how to make a beautiful mizuhiki knot and some tips for a variety of uses (other accessories, interior decorations, etc.)
Gallery
About the Instructor
Satoi Adams
Mizuhiki Artist
Satoi is a Mizuhiki artist from Mizuhiki Global Links based in both Tokyo and NY. She creates designs that incorporate the traditional Japanese craft of Mizuhiki into fashion and interior decor, and leads workshops at various locations, including her homes in Manhattan and Tokyo, as well as at schools and organizations.
Satoi began her career in broadcasting after studying Japanese linguistics at university, specializing in verbal communication. Living abroad gave her a new perspective on Japan's cultural value and the greater power of visual expressions over language. Since 2018, she has promoted Mizuhiki through workshops and exhibitions in Japan and the U.S. while also developing programs to support cognitive function in seniors and children.