[Handmade] A collection of stylish DIY koinobori (carp streamer) ideas
When you think of koi nobori (carp streamers), the standard has always been to display them outdoors, like in the yard or on a balcony.
However, stylish versions that can be displayed indoors as interior decor have recently become popular.
These indoor carp streamers are drawing attention not only as easy, seasonal handmade crafts, but also as decorations for children’s first seasonal festival (hatsuzekku).
In this article, we’ll introduce a range of chic DIY ideas for koi nobori all at once! From more elaborate handmade pieces to easy-to-make options, we’ve gathered cute and stylish ideas—so be sure to try making and displaying them yourself!
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[Handmade] A Collection of Stylish DIY Koinobori Ideas (11–20)
Embroidery board using an embroidery hoop
As a stylish interior wall decoration, you sometimes see fabric embroidered in a hoop and displayed like a board.
If you embroider carp streamers (koinobori), it can serve as a wonderful decoration for Children’s Day! Embroidery hoops in various sizes and embroidery threads are sold at 100-yen shops, so even those who have never tried embroidery can easily give it a go.
There are many stitching methods and types of stitches, but there are beginner-friendly tutorial sites and videos—be sure to check them out and try making one! You can also adapt the idea for other seasons and events.
mizuhiki (traditional Japanese decorative cord made from washi paper)
Speaking of koi-shaped streamers, that brings to mind Children’s Day—a day to celebrate children’s growth.
With that in mind, why not try making a koi streamer using mizuhiki, which is considered auspicious? There are several knotting techniques like the Awaji knot and the Plum blossom knot, so choose one that seems easy for you or that matches the shape you want to create.
By the way, this kind of craft is called “mizuhiki art,” and exhibitions are held around the country.
If you’re looking to start something new, why not give it a try?
Pebble art
Have you heard of pebble art or stone art? It’s an art form where you pick up stones from places like riverbanks and paint on them with acrylic paints.
If you have a bit of free time, how about heading to a rocky riverbank, collecting some stones, and painting koinobori (carp streamers) on them? Picture how you’ll paint the koinobori and think about where you’ll display them as you choose your stones.
Wash them thoroughly, let them dry completely, and then start painting.
You can get acrylic paints and brushes even at 100-yen shops.
You’ll end up with a one-of-a-kind koinobori—truly the only one like it in the world!
wool felt
Have you ever seen wool-felting kits sold in the magazine section of bookstores? It’s a craft that’s easy to try for anyone who wants a hobby they can do at home.
Let’s make a koi nobori (carp streamer) with needle felting! Its soft, warm look has a charm that’s different from using materials like origami paper.
The little prick-prick tasks can help you forget the busyness of everyday life, too.
And it’s already fun from the moment you start choosing felt in your favorite colors!
art frame
How about making an art frame using photo frames you have at home or ones from the 100-yen shop? You can also make a carp streamer (koinobori) using leftover materials around the house—such as washi paper, fabric, or beads—and place it inside the frame.
If you don’t have fabric or washi paper, try making it with masking tape.
You could also glue twine (like jute string) onto paper with wood glue to depict the koinobori; that might suit a room with a simple, minimalist taste.