Return of the Native


Collection of Hawaiian Koa Wood Photo Frames (LEO Design)

As many of you know, I was born and raised in Hawaii.  Earlier this month, I returned home to Kauai where my three brothers and I celebrated my father’s eightieth birthday—a happy milestone for our family.

While on Kauai, I visited the local woodworkers, from whom I bought the photo frames pictured above.  They are crafted of Koa wood, an indigenous (and highly-coveted) hardwood found only in Hawaii.  In times past, large trees were fashioned into canoes, gigantic bowls and other useful items.  In missionary times, the wood was used for furniture, paneling and hardwood flooring.  Today, alas, the trees are scarce—and woodworkers can only obtain wood from fallen or compromised trees.  Some have attempted to plant and farm koa trees but they take many years to grow.

The koa frames are (currently) available in 4×6, 5×7 and 8×10 sizes—and in two different widths of wood ($110-$175)—though inventory is limited. Please come into the shop to see them in-person or call us for further information.