Tivaevae manu (applique quilt)

Creating the intricate orchid pattern on this tīvaevae manu (appliqué quilt) must have taken great skill and time. The job of designing and cutting such patterns is often entrusted to experts called ta‘unga. Some women draw their designs directly onto the fabric, while others use stencils made of lino, plastic, or paper.

The owner of this quilt, Caroline Hutton, may also have been involved in its creation. She was making tīvaevae well into her 70s as a member of the Wellington vainetini (women’s working group) Taura Vananga. Before she passed away, she made a tīvaevae for each of her children and grandchildren.