お手玉

Otedama

Otedama is a traditional Japanese children’s game. To play the otedame, you need Otedama balls, and there are many different shapes and kinds of them. Some of the most common ones are made with 4 strips of fabric or have a shape similar to Hoozuki (Japanese lantern plant).

Inside of the otedama balls are often made of small shells, small azuki red beans, or little nuts and seeds. The balls that are made with small shells make a fine noise when you toss them. Because of that, this type is called Ojami (oh-jah-mi).

しあわせ

Shi-ah-wah-se

One style of Otedama balls is made with 4 strips of fabric. Since 4 strips meet together, it is called 四合わせShi-awase (pronounced shi-ah-wah-se) in Japanese. Shi means four, and awase means to put together. However, another word幸せshi-awase, which has the same pronunciation but different letters, means happiness.

Because of this word-play, this type of otedama balls is thought to bring happiness. In the olden days or even today, you can almost imagine somewhere someone making otedame balls for children and wishing that they will bring a happy healthy life for them.

Try Experiencing Kimono Creations?

I can do private lessons for you.

I will do it at your house, whether I am teaching a group or an individual.

It can be anywhere, hospitals, nursing homes, as long as it is near Arlington MA.

This fee also includes Kimono Fabrics and notions, so you can choose your favorite colors and materials.

Otedama - Lesson

You can make a Japanese traditional toy ' Otedama'

$20 (per person) Two hours lesson

Mari _ Lesson

You can make a Mari-Ball. This is a beautiful present for babies and kids.

$30 ( per person ) Two 1/2 hour lesson

My lesson time is Tuesday and Thursday morning until noon.

There is a group lesson discount.

From the group of five people.

Please contact me.

Studio Hyacinth 　　

　Nobuko Yoshihara

studiohyacinth@gmail.com

Tel 781-643-1252