Hawaiian Quilts: Speaking with Fabric and Thread

In this lesson, students are introduced to the Poakalani Quilters and learn about the story of teachers (and sisters) Cissy Serrao and Rae Correia, who are helping to keep the tradition of Hawaiian appliqué quilts alive. They learn about the history of the Hawaiian quilts, how they compare to other quilts, and see the techniques involved in making them. Students identify images of nature found within the quilts. After looking in their own environment for inspiration, students experiment with creating the radial designs by cutting and shaping folded paper. Finally, they recreate their design in the form of a colorful paper or fabric quilt block, learning some basic sewing stitches to appliqué the design. The blocks can be displayed together in a quilt-like grid, accompanied by information about the tradition of Hawaiian quilts. 

Grade Level: 8–12 

Estimated Time: four or five 45-minute class periods

Craft In America Theme/Episode: WEST