The Kahana Designs Journal

The Journal

The Kahana Designs Journal

Stories of Hawaiian culture — the akua, the islands, the flowers, the food, and the language. Written from our studio in Kailua-Kona.

Pele Hawaiian volcano goddess canvas wall art — Kīlauea fire deity
The legend of Pele: Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes
Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of volcanoes, is the maker of new land. A guide to her story, her journey from Kahiki, and how Hawaiians honor her today. Read more...
Hawaiian lauhala (hala/pandanus) weaving in progress
What Is Lauhala? A Guide to the Sacred Hawaiian Weaving Tradition
Lauhala — the woven leaf of the Hawaiian hala tree — is one of Polynesia's oldest and most enduring crafts. Here's what lauhala is, where it comes from, and why... Read more...
A shell and bead necklace, traditional Hawaiian adornment
Adorned by the Islands: The History of Jewelry in Ancient Hawaiian Culture
Long before Western explorers arrived on the Hawaiian Islands, the people of Hawaiʻi were crafting stunning ornaments from shells, bone, ivory, and feathers. Discover the deep history of jewelry in... Read more...
Lauhala Weaving: The Sacred Art That Wove Together Ancient Hawaiian Life
Lauhala Weaving: The Sacred Art That Wove Together Ancient Hawaiian Life
For centuries, lauhala weaving has been one of the most sacred and essential crafts in Hawaiian culture. Woven from the leaves of the hala tree (Pandanus tectorius), lauhala products —... Read more...

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