Hawaiian Quilt

Quilting has been a part of the Hawaiian tradition since centuries and it represents the Hawaiian culture. Hawaiian quilting distinguishes itself from other styles of quilting by the unique patterns and techniques that are used to make a Hawaiian quilt. Today, Hawaiian quilting has developed as an art form.

History of Hawaiian Quilts
Quilting was taught to the women in the Hawaiian Islands by missionaries from New England in the 1820's. They taught the women to sew together scraps of traditional materials from New England. Prior to learning the art of making quilts, Hawaiians made textile in the form of bed covers known as 'Kapa Moe'. Kapa Moe was made out of the bark of trees, since the weather in Hawaii is not favorable for cotton cultivation. It was made by beating the barks, then felting and then dying them according to different patterns. After learning the quilting techniques and adapting the fabrics from the West, the Hawaiians used their own innovative style for making quilts which reflected in their traditions and cultures.

Techniques Used in Hawaiian Quilts
Hawaiian quilting techniques follow the appliqué quilting techniques. The natives use intricately cut pieces of fabric of different colors and shapes to create the designs. They also use the 'snowflake method', taught by the missionaries. It involves folding the design into quarters and cutting all of the appliqué at the same time. This gives a symmetrical design. The 'echo' technique of quilting - following the contour of the design all throughout the quilt, was also used. Use of Motifs is another characteristic of the Hawaiian quilting technique. They make use of only two contrasting colors in the design- one for the appliqué and the other for the background.

Designs Used in Hawaiian Quilts
The designs used by the natives in Hawaiian quilts are created using inspiration from nature and reflect their personal experiences. The designs are created on the basis of a certain observation, a significant event or even dreams! Floral patterns and use of plants and other objects representing the natural beauty and traditions of Hawaii is an important aspect of designing Hawaiian quilts. Every quilt that is created is named after the inspiration behind its design. Designing and creating a Hawaiian quilt is a time consuming job as it involves a lot of detailing. All of the sewing is done manually.

Famous Hawaiian Quilts

The Flag Quilt: This traditional style of Hawaiian quilting uses the Hawaiian flags and symbols of the Hawaiian royalty in its designs. They are known as "My beloved Flag" quilts. These quilts represent the independence of the Hawaiian islands as a sovereign kingdom and are owned by some of the families on the Hawaiian island.

Queen Liliuokalani's Quilt: This quilt was made by Queen Liliuokalani using the 'crazy quilting method'. She made it while she was imprisoned in her palace after the downfall of the Hawaiian monarchy by the United States. This quilt is now termed as 'priceless' and is considered an important part of the Hawaiian history.

The beauty of a Hawaiian quilt cannot be compared to that of any other quilt. The sentiments of the natives of Hawaii towards their land adds to its beauty. The worldwide popularity of Hawaiian quilts has made Hawaiian quilting a valuable form of art.