Yumekanzashi refers to the beautiful, traditional Japanese hair ornaments that epitomize the nation’s artistic Culture. These intricate flower accessories, known as kanzashi, are more than mere decoration; they are a sophisticated art form reflecting nature’s beauty and historical social codes. Mastering the basic techniques opens a window into an ancient Japanese tradition.
The primary technique for creating kanzashi flowers is tsumami zaiku, which involves precisely folding small squares of silk fabric (chirimen). Each fold creates a petal, and multiple petals are combined to form realistic floral designs. Patience and precision are paramount in this delicate, century-old Culture craft.
Historically, kanzashi were used to signify a woman’s marital status, age, and social standing. Different designs were strictly worn during specific seasons. For instance, cherry blossoms (sakura) dominated spring, while maple leaves (momiji) were reserved for autumn, a reflection of the seasonal Japanese Culture.
To begin your tsumami zaiku tutorial, you’ll need silk fabric squares, tweezers, rice glue (nori), and a small metal backing. Cut your fabric into perfect squares, then use the tweezers to execute the basic triangular fold, forming the classic single petal, known as maru tsumami.
Once you have mastered the simple fold, you can combine five or six petals around a central wire to create a small blossom. The rice glue, applied sparingly, holds the shape firmly. Allow each piece to dry completely before assembling the final ornament onto a hair stick or comb.
The colors and patterns chosen for kanzashi are deeply meaningful within Japanese Culture. Vibrant reds and pinks signify youth and celebration, while simpler, more muted colors might be preferred by older women. The design often complements the pattern of the kimono being worn.
Beyond tsumami zaiku, other kanzashi styles include bira-bira (dangling metal strips) and ogi (fan-shaped designs). Learning these variations broadens your skill set and allows for more complex, elaborate hair arrangements suitable for formal events like weddings and coming-of-age ceremonies.
