Temari balls are an art form that originated in Japan (or possibly China) five or six hundred years ago. The balls were originally made by mothers and grandmothers for the children to play with.
The balls were constructed from the remnants of old kimonos. Pieces of silk fabric would be wadded up to form a ball, then the wad wrapped with strips of fabric. The silk threads would have been removed and saved and used to first wind around the ball, then to stitch the ball firmly together.
As time moved on, the stitching became more and more decorative and involved, until the balls displayed very intricate embroidery. The balls transcended from playtoys to art objects (although loving moms will still make them for their children).
Temari balls became an art and craft of the Japanese upper class and aristocracy, and now represent a highly valued and cherished gift symbolizing deep friendship and loyalty.
Item#: TMRG. Diamter: 2 3/4" - 3 1/4", $22.50 (shipping: $5.00).
The artist can accommodate your request as to what colors should be used. When you place your order, please let us know what you would like for the background color and up to four colors for the design. Also, if you would like a string to be attached to temari so that it can be hang, please indicate so.
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