Tsumami-zaiku has always been an art that comes with a component of re-creation. Legend has it that the first kanzashi were created from silk kimono that were cut into squares and remade into decorative kusudama as a gift for the emporer.

As such, I’ve never been shy about taking parts of older kanzashi and using them to make something new. Sometimes I create experimental designs, and not every design works out. I created this two-toned peony back in 2018, and while it made for a perfectly fine hair accessory, after years of sitting on my board going unsold I finally decided to take it apart and make it into something new.

To remake this piece, I started by removing the original centerpiece and replacing it with a more traditional gold swirl. Then, I added chiyogami paper to the back of the piece to give it a cleaner, more decorative backing. Once the chiyogami paper dried, I applied a locking pin back.

I felt like the piece still needed a little something more, so I took my gold glitter wire and a little green silk and made some leafs. The little blue rhinestones suggest little droplets of water, and a touch of sparkle without being too much.

Although I don’t wear brooches very often, I’ve always wanted to make sure that my offerings include pieces that don’t require you to have long hair to enjoy.

I also felt a little inspired by Chanel’s famed camellia brooches. So, maybe this is my Japanese inspired take on the Chanel camellia brooch as well as an ode to one of my personal favorite flowers – the peony.

For me, there’s always been something comforting to me about taking pieces from older works and creating something new from them.

In a way it’s a visual reminder that everything is a work in progress, and over time all things can be improved – not just art, but ourselves as people too.I look forward to working on new remake projects as the occasion arises.

Anyhoo, if you’d like to have a piece of my work, this piece and more will be part of my end of month product drop! 🙂 Keep an eye on this page or follow my Instagram for more crafty chill updates.