HAWAIIAN QUILT Meaning and
Definition
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A Hawaiian quilt is a unique form of quilting that originated in the Hawaiian Islands and has become a cherished cultural tradition. It is a handcrafted textile art form characterized by its bold, symmetrical designs, vibrant colors, and intricate stitching techniques.
Typically, a Hawaiian quilt consists of a single large, solid colored fabric as the background, onto which a distinctive quilt pattern is appliquéd. The quilt patterns are often inspired by natural elements found in the Hawaiian landscape, such as plants, flowers, marine life, and geometric shapes. The designs are meticulously hand-cut and then hand-stitched onto the fabric, creating a striking contrast between the pattern and the background.
One of the defining features of a Hawaiian quilt is the stitching method known as "echo quilting" or "echoing." This technique involves hand-quilting parallel lines around the pattern, creating a series of concentric shapes that resemble ripples or waves. This unique stitching not only adds visual interest to the quilt but also serves to secure the appliqué pattern to the fabric.
Hawaiian quilting is not merely an artistic expression but also deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people. The quilts hold great cultural significance, often given as treasured gifts for special occasions such as weddings, births, or graduations. They are often passed down through generations as family heirlooms, symbolizing love, unity, and the connection to the Hawaiian culture.
Today, Hawaiian quilting continues to be practiced as both a traditional art form and a commercial craft, with artisans creating exquisite quilts that showcase their skill, creativity, and love for their heritage.
Etymology of HAWAIIAN QUILT
The word "Hawaiian quilt" refers to a type of quilt that originated in the Hawaiian Islands. The etymology of the term "Hawaiian" comes from the Polynesian language spoken by the native inhabitants of the Hawaiian Islands. The term "quilt" comes from the Middle English word "quilte", which derived from the Latin word "culcita", meaning a stuffed sack or cushion. The combination of these two terms, "Hawaiian quilt", refers to a unique style of quilt that is associated with the Hawaiian culture and tradition.
