Hawai‘i Island Designers Shine in New Sewing Documentary

In a celebration of tradition, craftsmanship, and modern innovation, *That’s Sew Hilo* is a captivating documentary that has taken the Hawai‘i Island community by storm.

Premiering earlier this month to a sold-out audience, this locally produced film dives deep into the rich history and evolution of garment-making on the island.

Produced and directed by Nā Leo TV, the documentary not only sheds light on the legacy of iconic local brands but also highlights the burgeoning talent of contemporary designers.

With additional screenings scheduled due to overwhelming demand, *That’s Sew Hilo* is a testament to the enduring spirit of Hawai‘i’s sewing and tailoring community.

The Premiere of *That’s Sew Hilo*

The premiere of *That’s Sew Hilo* took place on March 6, 2025, at the Hilo Palace Theater, as part of the Zonta Club of Hilo’s Fashion Frenzy series.

The event was a resounding success, with a sold-out audience eager to witness the 70-minute documentary.

This film serves as more than just a visual treat; it is a fundraiser supporting scholarships and projects that benefit girls and women across Hawai‘i Island.

A Community Effort

Produced and directed by Nā Leo TV, with support from the Atherton Family Foundation, *That’s Sew Hilo* showcases the collaborative effort of various stakeholders within the community.

The documentary features a range of beloved local brands such as Hata’s, Kurohara’s, Okolehao by Mark Yamanaka, Dragon Mama, Hana Hou Hilo, and Sig Zane Designs.

It also elevates contemporary designers, including House of Kamamalu, Dezigns by Kamohoalii, Lexbreezy Hawai‘i, Ola Hou Designs, and Alohiwai.

Exploring Hawai‘i Island’s Garment-Making Legacy

Hawai‘i Island boasts a rich history of garment-making, with major manufacturers like Kamehameha Garments and Evelyn Margolis, which produced the Hilo Hattie’s line.

The island was also home to countless mom-and-pop tailor shops where skilled seamstresses and tailors honed their craft.

At one point, aloha wear was Hawai‘i’s third-largest export, trailing only sugar and pineapple.

Preserving Traditional Handcraft Skills

The documentary highlights the importance of preserving traditional handcraft skills, which have seen a renewed interest in recent years.

For many, creating garments was not just a livelihood but a source of pride, purpose, and identity.

By sharing these stories of resilience and community, *That’s Sew Hilo* aims to inspire a new generation of designers and artisans.

Upcoming Screenings at Nā Leo TV’s Hilo Studio

Due to the overwhelming response from the community, Nā Leo TV has announced additional screenings of *That’s Sew Hilo*.

These will take place at the Nā Leo TV’s Hilo studio located at 91 Mohouli Street. Screenings are scheduled for Tuesday, March 25, April 8, and April 22, 2025, with two showtimes each day at 2:00 pm and 6:00 pm.

Doors will open one hour before each screening, allowing attendees to tour the facility, purchase refreshments, and secure their seating.

Priority Seating for Kupuna

In a gesture of respect and gratitude, kupuna (elders) will receive priority seating at these screenings.

This initiative ensures that the wisdom and experience of the older generation are honored and appreciated within the community.

The Vision Behind *That’s Sew Hilo*

According to Ashley Kierkiewicz, President & CEO of Nā Leo TV and one of the film’s producers, the vision behind *That’s Sew Hilo* was to share the stories of resilience and community within Hawai‘i Island’s garment-making industry.

Kierkiewicz emphasizes that for many, creating garments was not just a means of earning a living but also a source of pride and identity.

A Tribute to Craftsmanship

The documentary serves as a tribute to the craftsmanship that has defined Hawai‘i Island’s garment-making industry.

By featuring both historical and contemporary designers, *That’s Sew Hilo* bridges the past and the present, showcasing the evolution of sewing, tailoring, and garment-making on the island.

Supporting Local Talent

One of the key objectives of *That’s Sew Hilo* is to support and elevate local talent.

The documentary features a range of designers who are making their mark in the fashion world, from established brands to emerging names.

This focus on local talent underscores the importance of community support in fostering innovation and creativity within the industry.

Future Prospects

With the success of *That’s Sew Hilo*, there is a growing interest in the future prospects of Hawai‘i Island’s garment-making industry.

The documentary has sparked conversations about the potential for new designers to emerge and for traditional handcraft skills to be preserved and passed down to future generations.

Conclusion

*That’s Sew Hilo* is more than just a documentary; it is a celebration of Hawai‘i Island’s rich history and vibrant future in garment-making.

By showcasing the stories of resilience, craftsmanship, and community, the film inspires a renewed appreciation for the art of sewing and tailoring.

With additional screenings scheduled, there is ample opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate this unique aspect of their cultural heritage.

For more information on the documentary and upcoming screenings, visit Big Island Video News.