Hawaiian Quilts
Quilting was introduced in Hawaii in 1820 by missionaries from New England. Most
Hawaiian quilts are made from whole pieces of solid colored cloth. Large
appliqued patterns are placed over a neutral colored background. These designs
are cut from patterns fashioned by folding a piece of paper and cutting a design
from it. THese designs are inspired by the natural beaty of Hawaii. The
quilting usually follows the outline of the applique design.
The
nineteenth century Hawaiian quilting bee was done on a quilting frame that was
low to the ground since the Hawaiians preferred to sit on the floor. The woman
hosting the quilting bee never contributed her own quilt since her job was to
prepare the banquet which was served at the end of the day.