Like many traditions in the islands, Hawaiian quilt design began with a Western foundation that then incorporated local influences. Here is the fascinating history of quilts in Hawaii and how the tradition continues today. 

The Beginning of Hawaiian Quilting

Before the arrival of Christian missionaries, the people of Hawaii made blankets out of kapa, a fabric pounded from the bark of a wauke tree. These were used as bed covers or clothing for special occasions.

The earliest evidence of quilt design in Hawaii goes back to 1820. These patchwork quilts were made from scraps of fabric brought over across the Pacific Ocean. At first, the Hawaiians were skeptical about this type of quilt. They believed it was a waste to cut up pieces of fabric and sew them back together. They also didn’t understand why they needed to create a warm blanket since the weather never got cold enough for it. However, over time, the Hawaiians added their own style to the missionaries’ shared art form. 

Hawaiian Quilt Design & Culture

The finished products represent the beautiful nature and traditions of the islands, with bright colors and intricate designs of the local flowers and plants. Because the women of the islands didn’t have to worry about finishing a quilt design before winter arrived, they took their time with their craft, which led to many intricate, detailed stitches close together. 

These quilts feature gorgeous, bright colors like red, yellow, and blue on a pale-colored or white background. They are always symmetrical and traditionally feature nature or household items meaningful to the maker, giving them a unique personality. Classic Hawaiian quilts don’t have people or animals on them and often feature a breadfruit design. People exchange them as heirloom gifts for someone’s wedding or the birth of a child. 

Do you want to showcase a beautiful Hawaiian quilt in your home? The Maui Quilt Shop in Kihei offers an assortment of one-of-a-kind quilt designs to brighten up your bed or couch. They also provide classes and Hawaiian quilt kits to let you sew your own creation. To learn more about their class schedule, visit their website. Call (808) 874-8050 to sign up.