Visitors to the islands or handicraft aficionados will truly prize hand-stitched Hawaiian quilts, or kapas. These one-of-a-kind works of art are made in the traditional manner to depict or suggest common natural themes. Sea animals, ancient gods and tropical flowers and fruits are popular and evocative images. Some importers sell poor-quality reproductions. You can find authentic, handmade quilts and baby blankets from a reputable online dealer with an address on the Big Island.
Adding Aloha to a Home Using Hawaiian Quilt Art
Pursuing a Polynesian theme can be as simple as throwing a beautiful Hawaiian quilt over a bed or displaying one as a wall hanging. Selections include nautical images, elaborate florals and abstract mountains scenes. Hawaii citizens are proud of their statehood, and many bedspreads depict the state flag or island history. Baby blankets are also popular crafts that make heirloom gifts, with tender themes such as hula bears, hobbyhorses and baby ducklings.
Master hand stitching results in six to eight stitches per inch in a ripple pattern that evokes the sea. This may be a coincidence, since the craft came to the islands with American missionaries in the nineteenth century. Given the evolution of patterns, however, which moved away from American tradition toward images of the natural environment, some local expression may be involved. Designs are appliquéd on cloth, and then the entire piece is quilted.
Homeowners and decorators who want to locate a source for the best-quality Hawaiian home accents should consult a direct exporter. At Style Hawaii, we sell quilts and other artistic items from local crafters online, and can be reached at (808) 557-2797.
