Threads of Mastery
The American Kumihimo Society
May 1st - June 7th

Exhibition Statement:

Praxis Fiber Workshop, in collaboration with The American Kumihimo Society (AKS), is pleased to present “Threads of Mastery: An Exhibit of Narrow-ware Textile Artistry”. Originally presented as part of the International Braid Society Conference in June 2025, the exhibit will feature a variety of work across several disciplines, including ply splitting, inkle and tablet weaving, sprang, and traditional Kumihimo and non-traditional Kumihimo.

Textile art exhibitions usually focus on the grand – clothing, quilting, tapestry, and other large-format items. The workhorses of the textile world – straps, belts, ties, and the like – are rarely shown or acknowledged, yet they are often subtle examples of creativity and functionality. In some cases, these forgotten items literally hold society together – where would our pants be without a good belt?

Threads of Mastery highlights a category of textile arts generally known as “narrow wares.” “Narrow wares” usually encompass bands that are four inches or less in width. Wider pieces are possible – you will find several in our exhibit – but in general, the equipment used to make these articles is geared towards narrow items.

The exhibition is divided into six categories: Sprang, Ply-splitting, tablet weaving, inkle weaving, traditional Kumihimo, and non-traditional Kumihimo. The “youngest” of the techniques appears to be ply splitting, which dates back about 700 years, originating in the deserts of India and used to create decorative camel girths. Inkle weaving was formally named in the 16th century, but the techniques used date back to antiquity in Egypt. Sprang appears to be 3,500–4,000 years old, originating in Denmark, while Kumihimo is about 1,400 years old.

Gallery is open Monday 4–8pm, Wednesday + Sunday 12–4pm or by appointment (contact@praxisfiberworkshop.org)

*Note that Praxis has partnered with Waterloo Road Hobby Club while we are under construction. You can find this beautiful exhibit just two doors down from Praxis on the same block.