I recently attended a Braiding Conference in Iga City, Japan where my study was with masters of the kumihimo art and jewelry.  Iga City is the city of kumihimo braiding, museums, a City castle,  and culture.  Samurai armor, the braiding of the masters, is still preserved and exhibited here in the city's museum.  I have returned to my business in Tucson, Arizona, inspired, and looking to step up my braided and beaded jewelry.