"There is no known record of when and how Temari (meaning "to wind by hand") originated. It is said that the introduction of Temari came from China during the Nara Period. It was made from deer skin, and used only by high court lords in kickball games. At the same time, court ladies of the noble family began using the beautiful silk threads to carefully and lovingly wind them them into decorative balls. They competed with each other in making the most colorful and elaborate patterns. The balls were used in tossing games or as decorative pieces. During the late Helan (Fujiwara) Period (AD898-1185), it was known as Goten-Mari, and loved and highly valued by the princesses of the noble family.

        Temari was handed down from generation to generation, mother to daughter. It gradually spread and became popular also in regional towns where it developed its own techniques, beauty and local color. It is also known as Edo-Temari, Kishu-Temari, Matsumoto-Temari, Kaga-Temari, etc., according to its geographical location and design. Following the Meiji period, rubber balls were introduced and the popularity of Temari gradually declined.

        Today this traditional Japanese folk art has been revised and newly devised designs and patterns have been created. With more and more elaborate techniques and refined materials it has become very popular, and has resulted in the formation of many societies for the research of Temari."

        Certificates are earned by completion of studies with an instructor - work for inspection must be submitted by the instructor. Inspections are done once a year. All submissions must be received by May 31; inspection will take place by June 30; applicants receiving certification will be notified by July 31. Actual balls or photographs may be submitted; no originals are returned.
 

• Introductory level: student must submit 4 items, one each of 4, 6, 8 and 12 equal divisions with obi, having the pattern travel evenly about the ball.

• Advanced level: student must submit 6 items, 3 of 8 combination and 3 of 10 combination divisions. Must also include diagrams and summary of process.

• Master level - may only be applied for following 2 years of study following receipt of the Advanced certificate. Must submit 3 original designs and 5 or more other designs, including diagrams and summary of process, and must be of excellent quality.

• Instructor level - may apply only after 2 years of study following receipt of Master level certificate. Must submit 6 original designs with diagrams and summary of process.

    Fees: Initial membership fee to the Temari Association, 2000 yen. Annual fee, 3000 yen.

• Introductory certificate: 4000 yen
• Advanced: 6000 yen.
• Master: 20,000 yen.
• Instructor: 40,000 yen

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