Description

Piupiu (Flax Skirts) take a long time to make, and the weaver needs considerable skill, experience, resources (harakeke) and good weather.

They are made from a specific type of Harakeke (NZ Flax), different from the varieties we use for kete, pikau or other “woven” items. The fresh leaf is first cut on the dull side on a pattern board. Then the front (shiny/waxy) membrane is scraped off (haro) with a mussel shell to reveal the underlying muka (fibre). Next, they are boiled, left to dry, curled, and bleached (and closely watched so they do not curl into each other). When we have enough pokinikini (strips) for a specific size, we whatu them (put them together using either muka or jute string), and then they get dyed to reveal the pattern.

We rarely have any in stock as they are mostly made to order and size. So, this is a rare opportunity to buy one outright without waiting time.

Piupiu – fits Adult Male

Size: 31″ (80cm) waist x 16.5″(42cm) drop

Material: NZ Flax / Phormium Tenax

Dye: RIT Commercial Textile Dye

Pattern: Korirangi

All our products are handmade and one-of-a-kind. They are safe to be sent across the world with extra insurance. Please inquire as to the cost.

Additional information

Weight	3.2 kg