Kia orana,
Our aim is to keep the art of Tivaevae alive. We are a mother daughter business, delighted to welcome you to our slice of Pacific Paradise.
There is no written record on how and when the sewing of Tivaevae was introduced to the women of the Cook Islands. Some say it was the wives of the London Missionary Society Missionaries who arrived in 1821 and others believe it was the three Catholic nuns (one Irish, two French) who came from Tahiti in 1895 and taught sewing at the local Catholic school. I feel sure both these groups had an input into what is known as Tivaevae.
Tivaevae is a form of artistic quilting traditionally done by Polynesian women. The word literally means "patches", in reference to the pieces of material sewn together. Tivaevae is considered to be the ultimate gift presented at weddings, birthdays and funerals and are often used to decorate the walls around the wedding table and other prestigious events.
The Tivaevae Collectables
Rarotongan Family
A maroon tivaevae with intricate gardenia flower design.
We are proud to offer the vibrant colour combinations that reflect the colours and moods of the Pacific:
Hand made Tivaevae – priceless pieces of art. Our hand made Tivaevae come if a variety of colour’s, design and detail. The ultimate gift you can wrap yourself in, feeling the warmth and love of the Cook Islands. These are lovingly crafted by Cook Island women.
Cut and tacked Tivaevae – most of the skill is in the cutting and tacking. Why not have this part done for you? Our cut and tacked Tivaevae are made on Rarotonga. Please ask if you would like information on Tivaevae classes either on Rarotonga or in Auckland.
Machine made Tivaevae – “easy care” Tivaevae, machine appliquéd for everyday use. After a global search for the best machine embroiderers. We now have a team of 14 independent sewers from Penebel, a small village in central Bali. This is a new generation of Tivaevae – one that is practical, affordable and sensational.
We have a wonderful friendship with all our Tivaevae family and are very proud that we are able to work with such a deserving and lovely group of women while keeping the art of Tivaevae alive.
Tivaevae Collectables started in 2005 after seeing a gap in the market to take Tivaevae online, internationally. You can see our product in many resorts on Rarotonga, this is a testament to the quality, durability and WOW factor.
This high quality product combined with our hard work and excellent customer service has seen Tivaevae Collectables go from strength to strength ever since.
We look forward to meeting you.
Kia manuia, Welcome!
Tivaevae artist, Tangi from Aitutaki.
The view of our showroom in Nikao, Rarotonga, from the road.