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2025.11.07
CULTURE

A Single Bead Weaving Tradition and Trends—TOHO BEADS and the Future of Bead Culture

#Beads
#TOHO BEADS
#Crafts
#Fashion
#Handmade
#Craftsmanship
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A tiny spark that connects the warmth of handmade crafts with the cutting edge of fashion—that's a bead. And one company has been exploring its potential from the very beginning: TOHO BEADS, a legacy manufacturer headquartered in Hiroshima. Since its founding in 1951, it has been cherished by designers and artisans both in Japan and abroad, and today it stands as a cornerstone for bead artists worldwide.
In an age of accelerating mass production and fast-changing trends, their commitment to protecting 'the beauty encapsulated in a single bead' remains steadfast. Recently, they've been actively exploring new avenues for bead culture, including collaborations with the apparel industry and artists, and initiatives to support up-and-coming creators.
We had the chance to sit down with Iwao Yamanaka, President of TOHO BEADS, to discuss the intersection of traditional craftsmanship and modern bead embroidery culture, and what the future holds.
PROFILE
Iwao Yamanaka

President, TOHO CO., LTD.

A History of Beads Stretching Back to Pre-War Times and the Journey of TOHO BEADS

Thanks to the current crafting boom, the world of glass beads is enjoying a resurgence in popularity. Both then and now, they've been a staple in hobby and craft stores, with each tiny bead opening up a world of creative expression. So, what's the story behind TOHO BEADS, the company that produces many of the glass beads we see every day?
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