Barbara B. Suess

When I discovered Japanese temari embroidery, I knew I'd found THE needlecraft for me. Living in Yokohama, Japan, for four years in the late 1980s had a profound and lasting effect on me, and these embroidered balls with their symmetry and deep Asian symbolism touch my heart. In the summer of 2015, I was deeply honored to be recognized at the top level of certification, Kyoujyu (Professor, Level 4) by the Japan Temari Association, headquartered in Tokyo.

Each temari is a different combination of design elements - a puzzle to figure out and put together with thread. Wrapping the ball with thread and stitching the repetitive patterns are calming, soothing activities for me. I like to begin with an idea that I want to express - the joy of a spring flower, the power of swirling water, a cool night in the Appalachian Mountains or a Celtic knot pattern of interlocking geometrical shapes. Then I dive into boxes of threads to choose colors and textures. Stitch it out, give it a name, snap a photo and find a home for the temari.

Many excellent temari crafters don't do any other kind of needlework. If you've not had any experience with embroidery but are attracted to temari designs, don't hold back. Start with the easy patterns in Japanese Temari, A Colorful Spin on an Ancient Craft.

Caution: Stitching temari can be highly addictive!

Don't say I didn't warn you :)