Local Handicrafts
At Basically Books, we believe in supporting the many talented artists who call Hawaii their home. From jewelry to tiles to tiki, this is the place for authentic locally–made gifts! Please note that many of the items on this page are handcrafted and one–of–a–kind. We may not be able to provide a gift that matches exactly with the picture, but we will always have something similar and equally spectacular!
Studio Na'alehuHandmade Wooden Signs and Magnets, Handmade ButtonsMade in Na'alehu on the Big Island
Large Wooden Signs: $19.95
Small Wooden Signs (magnetic): $7.50
Buttons: $3.50These beautiful handmade signs feature various Hawaiian and local–style proverbs (including many not pictured), which range in subject from hula and surfing to art and pets. Signs are available in two sized, both of which feature beaded wire for hanging.
The smaller signs are also magnets.Studio Na'alehu's latest creation is a line of handmade buttons! All feature short local style sayings, most about hula and aloha (two of our favorite subjects!) Pin them to your purse, backpack or jacket to show off your aloha spirit!
Chris Upp Studios Hand–Fired Glass Creationsby Local Artist Chris UppMade in Hilo
Honu (Sea Turtle) Pendants: $23.95
Octopus Pendants: $29.95
Animal Figurines / Ornaments: Prices Vary
Wine Glasses: Prices VaryThese exquisite hand–fired glass (pyrex) creatures by Chris Upp Studios are the perfect island creation. Each animal and pendant has a unique shape and color pattern—just like in Hawaii's tropical oceans, no two creatures are alike.
Chris Upp draws his vision from the ocean—he spends as much time as possible underwater, watching the animals that inspire his work. He tries to bring out the beauty in these underwater creatures through his art—and we think he succeeds! Stop by and take a look at this fascinating glasswork. You'll be impressed by its beauty and life.
Re–Purposed Scrabble Tile PendantsBy Local Artist Linwood MitchellMade on Oahu
On Satin Cord: $1.95
On Ribbon with Beads: $10.00
On Silver Chain: $12.00Pamper your beauty and your intellect with these creative pendants made from re–purposed Scrabble tiles! Made on Oahu by a single mom as a cottage industry, these little tiles are great for any occasion. Many feature Hawaiian plants, flowers, quilt patterns, sealife, and other local scenes.
Opihi Jewelryby Local Artist
Buster JeramiahMade in Hilo
Prices Vary
Crafted by local Hilo artist Buster Jeramiah from opihi shells and other natural materials, these magnificent pendants are sure to get attention! Each pendant is unique, and many incorporate carvings, woven fibers, pearls and other stones. Available in various sizes, each with an adjustable necklace.
Wooden and Glass Pendantsby Local Artist Dave FalconMade in Hilo
Wooden Pendants: $4.50
Glass Pendants: $12.00Dave Falcon is a creative guy. We carry two types of beautiful pendants hand–crafted by Dave in his Hilo studio. First are these natural wooden pendants, carved out of coconut and other locally grown wood.
Each is unique, but the authentic petroglyph and tribal patterns that
you see here are incorporated again and again.Dave also makes hand–fired glass pendants. These pendants are actually made of pyrex, so they won't break. Semi-precious metals are heated and spun inside the pyrex to create magnificent colors and patterns. Each of these pendants is absolutely unique—Dave tells us that there is no way he can make the same one twice. Our pictures really don't do justice to these amazing creations. Stop by and see them for yourself!
Wooden Tikiby Local Artist Ofa PautaMade in Hilo
Prices Vary
These authentic tiki are painstakingly hand–carved by Hilo artist Ofa Pauta using local woods. Some are finished while others are left unfinished for a natural look. Each tiki is unique—we are always surprised and pleased by Ofa's new creations! Ofa also makes war clubs, walking sticks and other hand–carved products—look for them at Basically Books!
Banana Patch StudiosHand Painted TilesMade on Kaua'i
Large Tiles: $27.95
Small Tiles: $16.50These fun tiles are perfect for any room that needs a little local Hawaiian flair. We carry several variations of the popular "Please Remove Your Slippers" design—hang them near your door for a amusing way to encourage your guests to go local style. Other themes include music, hula, pets, geckos, and surfing. All tiles are hand painted on the island of Kaua'i, and include a hook on the back for easy display. Many are available in both 6x6 and 4x4 inch sizes.
Petroglyph StudiosPetroglyph Coasters, Keychains and NecklacesMade on the Big Island
Coasters: $7.95
Keychains: $4.95
Necklaces: $4.95It's hard to find petroglyph souvenirs. And forget about taking home something made of real lava rock or sand—there is a legend which states that removing lava rocks from the island will awaken the wrath of Pele, who will put you under a curse for stealing from her! Fortunately, Petroglyph Studios has solved the problem. These ceramic tiles, keychains and necklaces are made to resemble lava rock and sand, but are perfectly safe to remove from the island! Each has a authentic Hawaiian petroglyph design, including those for family, sea turtle, fish, and surfer. Take home a piece of the island without angering the Goddess!