ALEXCIOUS

Floral fantasy

The Kiku (chrysanthemum) Corsage is a pretty adaptation of the ancient art of Mizuhiki. Handmade to resemble a classic symbol of Japan, it is lovingly created in gorgeous shades of pink with green leaves. A perfect accent for weddings, graduations and other special occasions.

The Japanese art of knot tying of Samurai origin

To create the intricate Mizuhiki knot-work, washi paper is tightly wound, starched for stiffness before being auspiciously colored. Sophisticated (2D) creations are often used to decorate envelopes containing gifts of money for special occasions, and include motifs of plants, animals and fish, each of which is chosen for the meaning it conveys.

Surely Knot!

Mizuhiki literally translates as 'water-pull' - originally, hemp and suchlike was soaked in water then strips were pulled off to make cord. Quite when washi began to be used for Mizuhiki remains unclear, but it produces a thin twine that is very strong.

Mizuhiki was originally used by Samurai among others to tie their hair into topknots. As gifts presented by Samurai became more elaborate in the early Edo-Period (1603~1867), increasingly sophisticated Mizuhiki designs were devised to convey feelings of warmth, affection and togetherness.