Register Online Now through May 10, 2026.
Join us for Kumihimo on the Marudai Dwith Randy Spicocchi
An introductory class to kumihimo, the traditional braiding technique of Japan, using a marudai (wooden stand) and weighted tama (bobbins). In this class you will learn about the equipment, how to attach and secure cords to the tama and marudai, how to calculate counterweights; how to read patterns and keep track of the point of braiding and hand movements. You’ll also learn about fiber options and tips and tricks that help to produce an 8-strand braid of excellent quality.
What to bring:
- *Marudai, desk or floor height
- *8 tama, between 70-100 grams each
- Counterweights, 280 to 400 grams total
- Cloth bag for counterweights
- S-hook
- Key ring or chop stick
- Measuring tape
- Scissors
- Needles and matching thread to sew ends or wrap ends
- Supply fee for fibers: $10 payable to instructor
*Marudai and tama: Bring your own if you have them; let us know if you don’t. If you have questions about equipment, please contact the instructor: rspicocchi@gmail.com
Instructor Bio
Randy Spicocchi comes to HHH from Maui where he has had a home studio since 2020. He has been studying Kumihimo with many of the world’s preeminent Kumihimo designers and artists and is a member of the American Kumihimo Society, dedicated to the education of this ancient Japanese art form. Randy has taught Kumihimo Fiber Arts since 2019 and also enjoys making quilts as a member of The Maui Quilt Guild and is a member of the Hawaiʻi Handweavers’ Hui since 2022.
In addition to fiber art Randy opened Akalei Designs in April 2020. Akalei Designs reimagines traditional Hawaiian Lei using a vast array of glass and natural materials (e.g., shell, nuts, wood), and natural and synthetic fibers including silk, hemp, ribbon and other materials using braiding techniques and inspirations from Hawaii and the globe.Akalei is a Hawaiian word for "bead reflections" which describes our unique necklace lei, bracelets, hat bands, and earrings all uniquely handcrafted on Maui
www.akaleidesigns.com
Hawaiʻi Handweavers' Hui members receive a discounted class fee. If you are interested in becoming a member please click HERE.
This class is open to adults, and minors ages 12-17 when accompanied by a parent or guardian. If you are interested in taking the class with your child, please register online and add your child as a guest. Those registering for a Hawaiʻi Handweavers’ Hui class may add one guest based on availability.
We require a minimum of three participants for each class. A full refund will be issued to those registered, if class is cancelled by Hawaiʻi Handweavers’ Hui. Refunds for class registration cancellation by participant will be issued in full only if the cancellation is made more than 14 days before the class begins.
MAP Downtown Art Center
Click for information on Parking at DAC
MAP to HHH Classroom
How do I get to the Studio? From the Chinatown Gateway Garage, take the elevator to the 2nd floor and walk to the large double doors on the left. Enter the gallery and turn left; we are the last door on the left, past the kitchen. If you are parked elsewhere, walk up the steps to the DAC gift shop, go past it to find the elevator, and follow the instructions above to access the studio. There is a handicap ramp if you cannot walk up the stairs for the DAC building on the Nu'uanu entrance side. Walk towards the street lights, and you will see the ramp; you will need to walk through the courtyard to the elevator.
For more information contact: classes@hawaiihandweavers.org
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HHH TERMS OF USE_CANCELLATION POLICY 6_2026.pdf
