Obijime Braider
おびじめくみこう
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
Artisan who manufactures kumihimo cords used as obijime to secure and decorate kimono sashes, using traditional hand-braiding techniques or machine braiding.
Description
Obijime braiders manufacture kumihimo cords for obijime used to secure kimono sashes. They warp silk or synthetic threads on hand-braiding machines called marudai (tamadai) or taka-bata, incorporate specified colors and patterns, and braid them. After braiding, they perform finishing, shaping, dimension adjustment, quality inspection, and shipment. They acquire Traditional Craftsman qualifications, inherit traditional techniques, develop new designs, and handle machine braiding processes.
Future Outlook
Although the traditional crafts market is shrinking due to declining interest in Japanese clothing and a shortage of successors, new opportunities are expected from demand as Japanese clothing accessories or interior items, and collaborations with young artists.
Personality Traits
Dexterous with hands and good at detailed work / Excellent aesthetic sense / High concentration / Patient
Work Style
Contract manufacturing / Exhibiting at display events / Self-employed individual workshop / Workshop employment
Career Path
Apprentice Kumihimo Weaver → Obijime Braider → Traditional Craftsman → Workshop Owner/Lead Artisan → Traditional Crafts Artist
Required Skills
Dimension and tension adjustment / Hand-braiding machine operation / Kumihimo pattern understanding / Thread warping
Recommended Skills
Basic knowledge of kimono / Color certification / Design software (Adobe) / Traditional Craftsman qualification
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because mistakes in braiding thin threads directly affect product quality. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because creativity is required in designing colors and patterns. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because complex calculations are few, mainly following technical procedures. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because much of the work is individual, with limited opportunities for large-group collaboration. |
Related Qualifications
- Traditional Craftsman (Kumihimo)
Related Jobs
- Dyer
- Embroidery Worker
- Kumihimo Weaver
- Textile Weaver