Hawaiian Quilts
German Missionaries brought traditional quilting to the Hawaiian Islands in the early 1800s. With the westernization of Hawaii, cotton became available and Hawaiian Quilts as we know them, were born. They were made with two layers of fabric based on "paper cut" designs representing the local plants and flowers in Hawaii. The quilt tops are made using two pieces of fabric; white or light for the foundation and colored fabric for the design. Generally prints are not used. The colored fabric is folded into eights (like making a snowflake in school) then cut into a pattern, basted and appliqued onto a light background. Lesser known styles include Flag Quilts, Hawaiian Coat of Arms and quilts bearing the likeness of the Hawaiian Monarchy. The quilting is generally done with echo quilting which adds to the unique style and beauty of Hawaiian Quilts.
Benefits of Hawaiian Quilts
- The style of Hawaiian Quilts lends itself to full quilts with a single cut motif and a border or a variety of blocks used in a single quilt.
- The style can be made with a variety of different applique methods
- The designs and colors used are simple with sophisticated results.
Tools and Supplies for Hawaiian Quilts
- Basic Sewing Supplies
- Fabric and thread for the Hawaiian Quilts top and foundation fabric.
- Hawaiian Quilt pattern - or make your own.
- Applique Tools for the chosen method - by hand or machine.
What I Wish I Knew When I Started Hawaiian Quilts
HAWAIIAN QUILTS can be appliqued by machine or fused.
