Temari

Temari is a Japanese folk art that creates decorative balls by winding and stitching thread over a core. The word temari means hand ball, and traditional examples were made as gifts or keepsakes and displayed as symbols of good fortune.

Origins and history: Temari likely arrived in Japan from China or Korea and became established there by the medieval period. By the Edo period (1603–1868), it developed into a refined domestic craft, commonly practiced by women within households and communities. Designs evolved from simple playthings to intricate, highly valued objects, with techniques transmitted through families and local schools.

Construction and technique: A core, traditionally rice straw or a tightly packed bundle of fabric scraps, is formed into a sphere. The core is wrapped with multiple layers of thread to create a firm base. The outer surface is then embellished with bright silk or cotton threads using embroidery stitches. The resulting patterns range from precise geometric grids to more fluid floral motifs, achieved through careful arrangement of color and stitch placement.

Patterns and motifs: Temari designs often rely on geometric symmetry, producing motifs such as star-like or tessellated shapes, as well as floral and seasonal imagery. Patterns are described in grid layouts and proportional schemes, guiding the stitchers in reproducing exact designs. Modern practitioners also explore nontraditional color schemes and experimental motifs.

Modern practice: Temari continues as a contemporary craft, with practitioners in Japan and abroad. It is taught through workshops, pattern books, and online tutorials, and is represented in craft exhibitions and collections. While traditional methods persist, modern temari often incorporates new materials and inventive designs alongside classical patterns.