To celebrate International Friendship Day, Smyths Toys Superstores held events at 10 of its UK stores with the help of Spin Master.

Inviting kids to bring in their ‘besties’ to help make special friendship bracelets with the new KumiKreator, on Saturday 28th July two of the stores (Leeds and Crawley) saw appearances by YouTube stars Ambi C and Emma Laila 123, both of whom were visited by fans on the day.

Kumi comes from the Japanese word Kumihimo meaning “gathered threads.” It is the traditional Japanese technique of braiding cords and beads. The KumiKreator makes creating beautiful and intricate friendship bracelets fun to do.

At each event, kids were able to watch demonstrations of the new bracelet maker that spins to braid and create colourful friendship bracelets before their eyes.

As well as KumiKreator demos, there was also a Tattoo station for kids to come and get a temporary Tattoo, a Nail Station for their very own customised glitter manicure, and finally a #KumiFriends Selfie area for all to enjoy.

Both Emma Laila and Ambi C have uploaded ‘how to’ videos, plus Spin Master organised a Twitter Party to take place during the early evening in celebration of #internationalfriendshipday.

Speaking about the events, senior brand manager for Cool Maker, Ranjit Dhutti, commented: “What better way to celebrate International Friendship Day than by spending a special day with your best friend and making beautiful friendship bracelets.”