3 Bags in less than 1 month! Bag #3

Bag #3, the last bag of my bag purchasing spree was found on our last full day in Kauai. It was a stormy day and so we were seeking inside activities… which consisted of mostly shopping.  As we were driving around  Līhuʻe (which means "cold chill") trying to figure out what to eat for lunch, we passed the Kapaia Stitchery shop. The shop was so visually inviting from the road, and the write up in the travel guide was equally inviting…

Lonely Planet review for Kapaia Stitchery

"Nirvana for folks who sew, with a wide selection of tropical fabrics, Hawaiian quilt and pillow kits and needlepoint designs. Custom-made aloha shirts and other handmade items on sale for those who can't thread a needle."

... Well, we just had to stop (thankfully there was a Koa woodworking shop a few steps away to serve as a diversion for Steven and Roberto).

Inside the shop truly was a nirvana for anyone who loves needlework, and even if you don’t, there are so many wonderfully handcrafted and fun gift items to peruse. The fabric selection was certainly Hawaiian in flavor, but there was also a heavy Asian feel as well, along with lots of great staple and blending fabrics to choose from. The shop also has a few “signature” batik fabrics unique only to their store. 

Since I’ve been on a hiatus from quilting, I couldn’t justify any fabric purchases (even if there is no such thing as "too much" fabric to a quilter), but… there was this lovely satchel style purse made from fabric with a very “vintage” Hawaiian feel to it. I also really liked the design of the bag; it is in essence a bag within a bag, creating a drawstring center for a bit more security, yet outside pockets to stash a book or anything else you would want quick/easy access to. The best part, the bag was handmade on Kauai by Mailelani’s.

For anyone visiting Kauai who is even remotely interested in needlework, fabric, or Hawaiian Quilts, then Kapaia Stitchery is a place you MUST stop and visit! Leave your husband or boyfriend at the pool or beach, because you won't want to be rushed. Browsing the many beautifully crafted items, quilts, patterns, books, kits and fabrics is truly a feast. The people who work at Kapaia Stitchery are equally as delightful,  very friendly and helpful.

Unfortunately neither Kapaia Stitchery or Mailelani’s currently have a website. but here is contact information for Kapaia Stitchery:

               3-3551 Kuhio Highway
               Lihue, HI 96766
               (808) 245-2281

I was not able to find contact information for Mailelani's, but I'm sure the kind folks at Kapaia Stitchery could point you in the right direction.