"Baby's first Tivaevae, stitched with aro'a" as a special gift and cultural invitation for a new baby, inspired by practices from the Cook Islands.
What is a Tivaevae?
A tivaevae (also spelled tivaivai) is a form of artistic quilting traditionally created by Polynesian women. In the Cook Islands, these quilts are often made with brightly colored fabrics and floral motifs. Tivaevae are considered treasured and are gifted on important life occasions, including weddings, funerals, and birthdays.
"Baby's first Tivaevae":
- The gift: It is a perfect gift for a new baby.
- The invitation: The process of creating the quilt is an invitation for parents, grandparents, and other significant people to "tuitui" (sew) together. This collaborative process of sharing stories and songs strengthens relationships and cultural practices.
The story and Cook Islands values
- Aro'a (love): This is the love and care from parents, grandparents, and the community for the expectant parents and their unborn child, as they await the baby's safe arrival.
- Piri'anga (relationships): This value asks one to consider the important relationships in their circle that play an integral role in their well-being, identity, and upbringing.
- Papa'anga (genealogy): This emphasizes the importance of knowing who you are and where you come from, which is central to a person's identity. This concept is understood to follow an individual throughout their entire life.
Tivaevae designed, cut, and tacked by 'Ei Moana
Please note: The image shown is for reference only. You may not be purchasing this exact tivaevae.
This tivaevae is sold as-is and will require hand stitching to complete its final appearance. Ei Moana consultants supports the Cook island Mama's who have time and space to complete your tivaevae as an additional service.
Size:
Crib Blanket 45x60 inches
Optional: You can pick your colours and designs, contact 'Ei Moana and book a consultation.
Please note: Our Tivaevae are made to order. Please allow 5-7 business days from purchase to when you receive your order.
Baby's first Tivaevae, stitched with aro'a
Ei Moana Tīvaevae create meaningful opportunities for kōrero — gentle, grounding discussions with your loved ones.
They invite you to sit together, share knowledge, learn, grow, and strengthen your connections.This is more than a gift — it is a journey shaped by the space and time you create when you gather, sit, and tuitui (stitch) together.
Each tīvaevae purchase comes with a QR code linking you to a special video from co-founder, creator, and practitioner Repeka George-Koteka, who will guide you through the importance of your tīvaevae journey and how to honour the experience as a living cultural practice.
Our tīvaevae are made to order, lovingly prepared for you.
Please allow up to 4 days for us to complete and send your tīvaevae on its journey home to you.