What Is Kanzashi? How To Make Kanzashi Flowers?

What is Kanzashi

Kanzashi are traditional Japanese hair ornaments. Originally, these accessories served more than just a decorative purpose; they were believed to ward off evil spirits. Over centuries, the designs and uses of kanzashi evolved, especially during the Edo period (1603-1868), when hairstyles became more elaborate and the demand for decorative kanzashi soared among geishas and courtesans.

Kanzashi typically consists of a long, thin body that is either straight or gently curved, designed to be inserted into a hair bun or other updo. The body of the kanzashi may be made of metal, lacquered wood, or even plastic in contemporary versions. The top of each kanzashi is where the decorative elements are attached. The decoration materials may include silk, gold, silver, and sometimes semi-precious stones.

In this article, we will focus on the Tsumami kanzashi flowers. Tsumami kanzashi is a specific type of kanzashi that involves folding small, square-cut pieces of silk into delicate shapes resembling flowers. Tsumami is the name of this technique, meaning “pinching.” We are going to teach you how to pinch your own Kanzashi flower step by step!

Materials Needed for Making Kanzashi Flowers

Fabric

First things first, you’re going to need a piece of fabric in your favorite color. Polka-dots, neon green, classic black – you do you!

Liquid Glue

Next up is glue. It’s the magic potion that binds your Kanzashi creation together.

Hair Pin

This is the foundation where your fabric flowers will find their forever home.

Tweezers

Tweezers will be your best friend when handling and placing those tiny petals.

Scissors

Sharp and ready, these are for cutting your fabric into perfect squares.

Small Pearls

These little gems are the proverbial icing on your Kanzashi cake. You can also replace them with tiny artificial flower stamen.

Steps to DIY Slim Kanzashi Flowers

Cut out eight square pieces of fabric and pinch them into the shape of slim petals.

Now, stick your well-crafted petals symmetrically onto a base (I used a brooch base here to show the petals better). Remember, balance is key – think of it like arranging your toppings on a pizza!

For the final touch, glue some pearls (or a flower bud accessory) in the center.

If you like more flowers glooming on your hair, repeat the above steps, and you will get a personalized Tsumami kanzashi!

Steps to DIY Round Kanzashi Flowers

And there you have it, folks! You’re now a bona fide Kanzashi artist, turning fabric squares into two types of Kanzashi flowers like a pro. Ready to give it a whirl? We can’t wait to see what you create!

The Stories Behind Kanzashi Flowers

Now that you’ve gotten your hands crafty and learned the step-by-step process of creating Kanzashi flowers. Let’s add a new layer to your DIY skill. What if we told you that each Kanzashi flower you’ve crafted or are planning to craft carries a unique story? Yes, you heard it right! In the mesmerizing world of Kanzashi flowers, each bloom represents not only an artistic achievement but also a distinctive symbolism. Let us spotlight some popular Kanzashi flowers and their fascinating tales.

Ume (Plum Blossom)

An emblem of resilience and fortitude, the Ume blooms while the snow is still on the ground. Wearing an Ume Kanzashi declares you’re not just a crafter, but a warrior braving the storms of life.

Sakura (Cherry Blossom)

The superstar during springtime in Japan, the Sakura is a symbol of the transient beauty of spring. By creating a Sakura Kanzashi bloom, you’re capturing a moment of fleeting beauty that won’t ever fade. It’s perfect for spring celebrations or to add a touch of poetic charm to your ensemble.

Kiku (Chrysanthemum)

Representing longevity and rejuvenation, Kiku is a staple during autumn festivities in Japan. When you craft a Kiku Kanzashi, it’s as though you’re declaring that your style is timeless and ever-evolving!

Tsubaki (Camellia)

Symbolic of eternal love and a promising future, Tsubaki can bring a tender touch to your Kanzashi flower creation. It’s the perfect Kanzashi to gift to a loved one.

Kanzashi flowers carry narratives, symbolize rich cultural meanings, and add depth to the crafting experience. So, as you embark on this creative journey, remember that each petal you fold brings you closer to a symbol of Japanese tales.

Too Difficult? Kanzashi at Amazon and Etsy

Now, if you’ve followed us this far, taken a gander at the list of materials and the DIY steps, and you’re thinking, “Yikes, this seems like rocket science,” or “Who has the time for this? I barely have time to binge my favorite shows!” – don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

We understand that not everyone has the time or the extra pair of hands to fold the fabric into delicate petals. That’s why the internet gods created places like Amazon and Etsy. They’re chock full of Kanzashi wonders, ready-made and waiting to be shipped right to your doorstep!

Here is a collection of our recommended delicate Kanzashi you wouldn’t want to miss:

Final Words

And just like that, dear friends, we’ve reached the end of our vibrant journey. We’ve folded, we’ve glued, we’ve even virtually shopped together – and boy, hasn’t it been a hoot?

In the hectic shuffle of daily life, don’t forget to stop and admire the kanzashi flowers. Remember the stories they tell, the hands that crafted them, and the cultural heritage they represent.

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