Hawaiian Quilting

Hawaiian quilts, dating back to the influence of nineteenth-century missionaries, are more than objects of practical necessity. A form of artistic expression, they beautifully reflect not only the spirit of a people but their culture and environment as well. For this modestly priced sourcebook, noted needlework designer Elizabeth Root offers 20 Hawaiian quilt blocks. Unique in construction — and typical of Hawaiian quilt motifs — the designs are cut in one piece and appliqued to a contrasting color background fabric. In this delightful collection, the designs for the 18-inch squares are named after the lush and exotic island vegetation that inspired them: Blue Jade, Tuberose, Trumpet Vine, Anthurium, Kukui, Protea, Hoya, Angel's Trumpet, Calla Lily, Plumeria, Iris, Pineapple, Breadfruit, Hibiscus, Crown Flower, Orchid, Red Ginger, Wood Rose, Maile, and Water Lily. Blocks are worked in very bright colors — blue on green, red on yellow, green on white — but of course, quilters may select colors of their own choice. An introduction provides fascinating background information about the origins and composition of Hawaiian quilts. Full-size patterns, an abundance of illustrations, and detailed, step-by-step instructions make it easy for even beginning quilters to re-create visually delightful Hawaiian treasures.