Tīvaevae (quilts)

This tïvaevae ta‘orei (patchwork quilt) is made from small brightly coloured squares hand-sewn on a backing of plain fabric, which also forms the border.

The squares are in the pattern of stylised hibiscus flowers. The hibiscus pattern is a favourite of the maker, Mrs Tapaeru Skinnon, one of the foremost tïvaevae makers in Wellington. She has used the design, in various colours, for seven quilts, made as wedding presents and other gifts.

This tïvaevae, purchased by Te Papa in 1995, was the first Mrs Skinnon sold outside the Cook Islands community.

Importance of tïvaevae

Tïvaevae (quilts) are not only of practical use, they are decorative objects as well. They are also cultural treasures, presented as gifts at weddings, funerals, hair cuttings, visits by dignitaries, and other important occasions.

The art of tïvaevae may have come to the Cook Islands with the wives of missionaries in the early 1800s. Other places in the Pacific where people make tïvaevae include Hawai‘i and Tahiti.

Tivaevae in New Zealand

In New Zealand, women’s groups keep the art of tïvaevae alive. These groups meet regularly to share ideas, sing and reminisce, and sew tivaevae for gifts or fundraising. Ta‘unga (experts) help others to improve their knowledge and skills.

Types of tïvaevae

Besides the tïvaevae ta‘orei described above, there are three other types of tïvaevae that have designs sewn on a backing cloth.

Tïvaevae manu (embroidered quilts) are made from cut-out shapes, mostly floral, sewn on a single-colour background. Tïvaevae tataura (appliqué and embroidered quilts) use a combination of stitching techniques. Tïvaevae tuitui tataura are made from embroidered squares crocheted together.

Text originally published in Tai Awatea, Te Papa's onfloor multimedia database (2007)