Welcome, Miho. First, tell us what Mizuhiki is, as some readers may not be familiar with the term.
Mizuhiki is a traditional Japanese craft made from tightly twisted washi (paper) cords that appear delicate, but are surprisingly durable. It is most often used to decorate gifts for special occasions such as weddings and ceremonies. But Mizuhiki is more than decoration - I think of it as the art of tying connections.
For centuries, it has carried meaning, with each knot symbolizing connection, intention, and the wish to bring people together. The act of tying is a gesture of care, expressing things that words cannot always hold.
In Japan, Mizuhiki is well known as a decorative cord used on gift envelopes, especially for celebratory occasions. Most Japanese people would recognize the term, but as an art form or for accessories, it is still gaining attention. Only in recent years has it started to be more widely used by artists.
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| 'Return of Happiness' to welcome summer with Mizuhiki lettering |
A Chance Encounter with Paper Cords
What led to your interest in Mizuhiki in all of its forms? I see that you not only create an array of jewelry, but also framed art, special cards, and even flowers. Your imagination knows no bounds!
My journey began unexpectedly during the pandemic in Japan. At a time when I lost my job and felt uncertain about the future, I happened to step into a small variety shop and encountered a delicate Mizuhiki barrette—an object that quietly changed the course of my life.
Captivated by its beauty, I began gathering materials and teaching myself the art through online videos. At first, I simply shared my creations on Instagram, not expecting anything in return. But when friends started asking to buy my pieces, something shifted. Their encouragement led me to begin selling my work.
Before moving to Germany, I participated in a single event in Japan. It was there that I experienced the joy of seeing something I created being valued by others, and I began to understand the profound cultural depth of Mizuhiki.
Tying Bonds Across Borders
And your interest continued to grow once you moved to Germany?
After relocating here with my husband, I found myself in another lockdown. Days passed without being able to leave home, and loneliness became a constant companion. Mizuhiki was my anchor; the quiet act of tying knots gave me a sense of purpose and emotional stability.
As I continued to refine my skills, I found comfort in knowing that people appreciated my work, even from afar. Due to visa restrictions, I was unable to sell my work for two years, but that period became a time of deep reflection.
Mizuhiki supported me through uncertainty and isolation. I made a promise to myself: once I was able to sell again, I would dedicate myself to sharing the beauty and cultural richness of Mizuhiki across Europe.
The Evolution of Yuinobi
Did you find your new country was receptive to Mizuhiki?
Living in Germany, I became increasingly aware of the cultural differences between Japan and Europe - not only in daily life, but also in the perception of traditional crafts. Mizuhiki, despite its elegance and history, is still largely unknown outside Japan.
This realization shaped my brand, which I named Yuinobi, meaning “the beauty of tying." My work exists at the intersection of tradition and modern life in Japan and Europe, and through each piece, I seek to create harmony between these worlds.
Sharing the Craft in Europe
What are your plans for the future?
I hope that Mizuhiki will one day be recognized worldwide, that more people will learn to tie its knots, and that its beauty will touch lives across cultures.
To bring this vision closer, I have been creating opportunities for people in Europe to experience Mizuhiki through workshops and DIY kits, so they can touch and learn the process of tying for themselves.
I am also exploring new ways of expression. In collaboration with a photographer, I am preparing for an exhibition to discover new artistic possibilities within this traditional craft.
My ultimate goal is simple yet ambitious: That one day, the term Mizuhiki Art will no longer be necessary. Just as words like origami or kintsugi are understood globally, I dream of a future where Mizuhiki itself is widely recognized. And when that day comes, my brand will quietly let go of the Art subtitle because its purpose will have been fulfilled.
Do you have any final words for our readers?
I hope you will experience Mizuhiki for yourself - to touch it and try tying it with your own hands. There is a quiet beauty in its delicacy and a certain strength within its form that can only truly be felt in person.
I am deeply grateful to Ann for giving me the opportunity to share this story. And to everyone who has taken the time to read it—thank you.
Readers, you can visit Yuinobi, and follow Miho on Instagram at @yuinobi_mizuhikiart for updates. On her website, you'll find several videos where she demonstrates basic Mizuhiki Musubi knots.
A Note Regarding Shipping
At the moment Miho has had to restrict delivery to the USA due to high customs duties that she feels place too heavy a burden on her customers. However, she generally offers shipping to other countries, including the UK and Australia; customs duties may apply to destinations outside the EU.
