Sunday, June 3, 2007

Lauhala-Kimura's in Hualaloa


Kimura Lauhala Shop
Location At Mamalahoa Hwy. and Hualalai Rd
City Kona
Phone 808/324-0053

Everyone loves Kimura's and the masterpieces of weaving that spill out of the tiny shop. It's lined with lauhala, from rolled-up mats and wide-brimmed hats to tote bags, coasters, and coin purses. The fragrant, resilient fiber, woven from the spiny leaves of the hala (pandanus) tree, is smooth to the touch and becomes softer with use. Lauhala also varies in color, according to region and growing conditions. Although Kimura employs a covey of local weavers who use the renowned hala leaves of Kona, some South Pacific imports bolster the supply.







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