Ka Hana Noʻeau

This thorough examination of Hawaiian cordage adds considerably to our knowledge of traditional Hawaiian material and is an indispensible reference for both scholars and the artisan of today who wishes to utilize the methods and materials of Hawaiian artisans.

In the book, Ka Manō Wai, the chapter titled "Charles “Sonny” Kaulukukui III: KAULA," Sonny Kaulukukui demonstrates a practice of old Hawai‘i called kaula—cordage and rope—as he sits erectly and uses his hands to gently roll, twist, and pull plant fibers. The making of kaula was a valued customary practice of old Hawai‘i. One can almost imagine Hawaiian ancestors sitting under trees, enjoying a cooling breeze, and making kaula for articles of daily living, such as the netting to hold gourds containing water. This practice has been adapted for use today. With a skillful repetition that has a hypnotic and almost meditative effect, Sonny twists plant fibers together.
Available online via JSTOR for UHM patrons.