Lauhala
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lauhala is either the Hawaiian art of weaving the leaves of the hala tree, or the leaves so used, or is sometimes used to refer to the tree itself. Lau is a Hawaiian word for "leaf", and hala is the kind of tree used. This craft is essential to the history and culture of Hawaii, at one time being used to produce many of the things needed for life on the islands.
The natural color of finished lauhala products varies from light tan to deep brown, and it can also be dyed, although of course it then ceases to be considered quite as "authentic". This craft is considerably more versatile than some other kinds of wicker-like weaving, with everything from houses to pillows being produced.
The leaves of the hala tree are de-thorned, washed, baked in the sun if green, although often stored in a moist environment if picked dead, and then rolled into into coils. It is then stripped to the size needed, and used in the weaving of containers, furniture, hats, and more recently even commonplace modern items, like purses.
