… and Exploring the Art of Hawaiian Quilt designing with John Serrao
This past Friday was an amazing day for our family. We went to the Hukilau Market Place in Laie to see the unveiling of our great-uncle Tutu Hamana’s statue at the entrance of the Polynesian Cultural Center. Tutu Hamana was known in his hometown for not only his active role in the first Hukilau but…
One of my favorite quilts depicting my Hawaii. Palm trees, Canoes and Rainbows. Quilted by Takako Jenkins. Designed by John Serrao 90″ x 90″. Before designing a quilt John always asks the quilter, “What is Your Story” and from there he is able to design quilts depicting a magical place in time, a favorite…
After designing your pattern sometimes it’s a good idea to cut it out on paper first before cutting it out on fabric. That way you can see the full design, double check the size, and also make any changes. When John first started designing he used masking tape to join newsprint paper to the size…
The Cupid Quilt, designed and quilted by Sophie Ventura. As you can see there is no symmetrical design, just cupid and hearts placed on a background fabric and than sewn and quilted by machine. Aunty Sophie made this quilt in one day as a gift for her husband. Yes, she made it the day before…
Renovation Update The renovations of the archives building(where we quilt) is tentatively scheduled to begin in May. Because it’s only for a month(I hope) we will be taking a short break/vacation unless we can find a temporary home during May. So please check my website and Facebook for any updates. Pictured left: The ladies…
The Monsterra a very popular Hawaiian quilt design because of its bold large leaves. Click on the graphic and watch John and his magic pencils create the actual design seen here. 45″ x 45″ Designed by John Serrao from the Poakalani Serrao Family Quilt Collection.
We live in a very tiny condo in the area they call Lower Nuuanu and/or Liliha . And because of the lack of space most of Poakalani’s cushion quilts were framed and hung on the wall. As you can see(sorry about the bad pic, took it at night and my cats love to play with them,…
The hibiscus and ti leaf two of Hawaii’s most recognized native plants. The Ti Leaf for good luck in the shape of the Kahili and the Hibiscus it’s crowning glory. 45″ x 45″ Designed by John Serrao The Hawaiians would cut the stalk of the Ti Leaf and curl back the leaves so it would…
Quilts in progress and some of the awesome ladies.
Using a plain backing showcases the tiny quilting stitches and its amazing design.
One of our first quilt shows at the Mission Houses Museum showcased several 45″ x 60″ wall hangings. These quilts were actually made to fit inside of a baby’s crib but after all the quilters expert handiwork they decided that hanging the quilt rather than placing it in the crib was of course a better…
This flower brings back wonderful memories of my grandparents home where the bachelor buttons lined the sidewalk that led to the front porch. 22″ x 22″ Designed by John Serrao
Like the Hula and the Hawaiian Chants of Old making a quilt in memory of a King, Queen, Friend and loved one brings honor to them. This quilt made back in the 1990’s by Joomi Shiroma depicts whales and symbols of Hawaii prominent during the reign of Kamehameha II. Our beloved King was born in…
Plant a Ulu(Breadfruit) tree at the birth of a child so it will have enough food his whole life. One of many legends associated with the Ulu Tree and that is why many quilters start with the Ulu design first before all others. 22″ x 22″ Designed by John Serrao …
To Everything There Is A Season especially those closet quilts that have sat for years waiting to be dusted off , re-introduced and completed. Today Doris surprised me by showing up at class with her Hibiscus quilt completely appliqued and ready for quilting. After 15 years in the closet this hibiscus quilt will finally begin…
