Hawaii is one of the most exotic places in the world, with its pristine beaches, tropical forests, and unique culture. Visitors to the islands often fall in love with the beauty of the land, its people, and their customs. And one of the best ways to take a piece of Hawaii home with you is through their traditional arts and crafts. From handmade jewelry to woven baskets, Hawaii has an extraordinary range of distinctive souvenirs that will delight any traveler.
Hula Implements
Hula dancing is a vital part of Hawaiian culture, and it has evolved over the centuries to express different themes and emotions. A variety of handmade implements used in hula dances are both functional and decorative. The pahu drums, for example, are carved from Hawaiian hardwoods like koa and are used with dancers’ rhythms. Gourd rattles or ipu heke are also used to keep the beat. Meanwhile, the ‘uli’uli is a feathered gourd rattle that is an essential part of the hula dancer’s costume and adds a soft, rustling sound.
Kapa Cloth
Before the introduction of Western clothing, Hawaiians dressed in a bark cloth called kapa. The making of kapa is a long and labor-intensive process, which involves pounding the inner bark of certain trees into sheets that are then decorated with plant dyes or paints. The resulting cloth has a unique texture and color that evokes the beauty of the islands. Today, kapa is often made into wall hangings, pillows, and bedspreads, and it makes for an excellent souvenir to take home.
Hawaiian Quilts
Another Hawaiian craft with a rich tradition is quilting. Hawaiian quilts are distinct in their use of bold, geometric shapes and botanical motifs like hibiscus flowers, palm fronds, and sea turtles. The pattern is appliquéd onto a solid background to create a distinctive design, making each piece a beautiful and unique work of art. Hawaiian quilts can be found in many sizes, including wall hangings, bedspreads, and even baby blankets.
Ukuleles
One of the most iconic Hawaiian instruments is the ukulele, often referred to as the "jumping flea." The four-stringed miniature guitar is an essential component of Hawaiian music and has been popularized worldwide. Handcrafted ukuleles can range in quality from beginner-friendly to professional-grade, and many are decorated with intricate inlays of mother-of-pearl or abalone shells, making them not just a musical instrument, but also a beautiful work of art.
Heirloom Jewelry
Hawaiian heirloom jewelry is a unique art form that combines European-style engraving with Hawaiian motifs, like flowers, turtles, and fish. The designs are often carved onto rings, bracelets, and pendants, and they are typically made of gold or silver. Heirloom jewelry often features the name of the owner and has been passed down from generation to generation, making it a meaningful and timeless souvenir to take from Hawaii.
Wood Carvings
Woodcarving has a long tradition in Hawaii. Wooden bowls, statues, and utensils are crafted from native forests with great care and attention to detail. One of the most popular types of wood for carving is koa, which has a rich, warm color and a beautiful grain. Some artists also use mesquite or mango wood to create their unique pieces, and many of these handicrafts feature traditional Hawaiian motifs like flowers, turtles, and waves.
Shell Jewelry
Shell jewelry is a popular souvenir that has been around for centuries in Hawaii. Many areas of the islands collect and sell natural shells that can be crafted into intricate pieces of jewelry like necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or anklets. Shells like cowrie, conch, and puka are popular materials, and they can be adorned with colorful beads or pearls to add elegance to the final piece.
Conclusion
Hawaii is a place of unmatched natural beauty and culture, and its handicrafts and souvenirs reflect that. From hula implements and kapa cloth to ukuleles and shell jewelry, Hawaii has a wide variety of traditional handicrafts that make for great souvenirs. Taking any or all of these items home will allow travelers to cherish the beauty of the islands and Hawaiian culture, even after their visit has ended.