Kanzashi are traditional Japanese hair ornaments. This site is about the tsumami hanakanzashi handicraft, a type of fabric origami used to make stylised floral forms which are worked into exquisite hair decorations. Squares of fine silk are carefully folded and arranged to form petals. Although there are only a few basic ways of folding the fabric, an endless variety of flowers and abstract shapes can be made.

Kanzashi in Japan are associated with traditional kimono fashions, and in particular with geisha and maiko who have an elaborate succession of hair ornaments worn to match the seasons. However, they are becoming increasingly popular worn with everyday fashions and alternative clothing styles. I admire both traditional kanzashi and new versions that can be made with the same techniques.

I learned to make kanzashi through experimentation, blind guesswork, and practice... lots of practice! I have tested finished samples to ensure they are durable and are suitable for both everyday and special occasions. I use both traditional materials- rice paste glue and kimono silk- and anything else lying around that I like the look of. I have written up some basic instructions here, covering materials, folding techniques, and assembling finished flowers.

Basic Kanzashi Instructions

Most of my pieces are for hair, but there are also brooches, chokers, and miscellaneous oddments. Some are designed specifically to match my clothing designs.
One-off items are available to buy in the shop section. You can also see galleries of past work and different styles being worn.
There is also a large section for seasonal kanzashi, with information about both Japanese maiko hair ornaments and original floral designs based on British wild plants.
Custom work is available, please email to discuss things at: kanzashi@peacockalorum.co.uk.