Temari is an ancient Japanese craft that is thousands of years old. Originating as a children’s toy used in games of kickball (similar to hackey sack that is played today), it is now primarily used as a gift. Historically these balls were made from scraps o left over Kimono’s that have been rolled up into the shape of a ball, and then the ball would be wrapped in strips of colored fabric and stitched so tightly that it could bounce.
Eventually Temari became more of an art form rather than an object to be kicked around by children. The stitching and arrangement of silk strips on the outer ball became more intricate until they displayed very decorative embroidery. Thus transforming the balls from a toy used for play into a decorative art form. (But they are still made by mothers into toys for their children). These days Temari balls represent a cherished gift symbolizing deep friendship.
The patterns used in Temari are usually symmetrical, and based on the elements of nature. In today’s society, Temari ball bases will often be made from Styrofoam or ball made of wood, that has been wrapped In a layer of yarn, and then a layer of sewing thread. Serious and strict Temari artists will insist on using the traditional method of creating the base form old scraps of cloth.
Most Temari balls average three to five inches in diameter, although you can essentially, create any size Temari you wish.
While little has been known about Temari in western culture, it has been gaining popularity as a craft, with several books being published in English and contacts being created with traditional Japanese Temari crafters.
Sources:
No comments:
Post a Comment