The author teaches the braiding techniques of the producers of the world's most beautiful patterns and most varied braiding structures: Japan (kumihimo) and Peru (sling braiding). He describes the equipment, materials, and methods for making braids with a traditional Japanese Kumihimo Marudai braiding stool or with a slotted card held in the hand or supported on a base. The third and major part of this book is the design section. Easy-to-follow diagrams show how to make 50 different braid structures incorporating over 250 patterns using 4-16 strands. Enticing color photos.