Feather Lei As an Art
by Mary Louise Kaleonahenahe Kekuewa, Paulette Kahalepuna, Karen A. Edlefsen
Category: Crafts & Hobbies

The art of featherworking has a long, cultural history in Hawaii. Rooted in the tradition of their Polynesian ancestors, the early Hawaiian perfected and transformed the art as they created feathered cloaks, capes, helmets, images, and standards for the alii. Many of the items made were considered sacredfrom both the process of their creation to their uses. Despite the influx of Western ideas, and the introduction of Christianity which, for a time, halted the practice of many traditional customs, this artform has survived and flourishes todaythanks in part to those in the community who continue their ancestors' legacy. This new edition of Feather Lei as an Art is meant to perpetuate the art of featherworking and bring it to a wide audience. It provides step-by-step instructions o how to make both traditional (round) and contemporary (flat) feather lei. Vibrant, color photographs complement instructions and provide a visual testament to the beauty of featherworking. Designed and written with the beginner in mind, the aspiring featherworker is guided not only through the steps of how to make the lei, but through the soul-satisfying journey which leads to its completion. Included is an overall look at the history of this ancient art; an explanation of the difference between traditional and contemporary lei; interpretations of the traditional colors used and color combinations; a detailed supply list; how to identify, prepare and work with feathers; how to store feather lei; and examples of what types of featherwork is being explore today.