Latest News & Blogs

  • All

Filter:

Wood Is Best for Dining Tables and How to Shop One

What Type of Wood Is Best for Dining Tables and...

When furnishing a home, the dining table is one of the critical pieces that bring together the warmth and hospitality of a dining area. Not just any table, but a...

Published

What Type of Wood Is Best for Dining Tables and How to Shop One?

When furnishing a home, the dining table is one of the critical pieces that bring together the warmth and hospitality of a dining area. Not just any table, but a solid wooden dining table that withstands the test of time and becomes a gathering spot for meals and memories. The material of your dining table can vastly influence its longevity, appearance, and how it complements your home. Among the plethora of options available, wooden dining tables stand out for their durability and aesthetic appeal. But what type of wood is best for a dining table, and how should you shop for one? Key Considerations When Choosing Wood for a Dining Table Durability and Hardness The dining table is more than just a piece of furniture—it's the real centerpiece of your...

Read More
What is Hawaiian Koa Wood and Why is it Special?

What is Hawaiian Koa Wood and Why is it Special?

Hawaiian Koa wood is a prized and revered material that holds a significant place in Hawaiian culture and craftsmanship. Known for its stunning beauty and versatility, Koa wood has been...

Published

What is Hawaiian Koa Wood and Why is it Special?

Hawaiian Koa wood is a prized and revered material that holds a significant place in Hawaiian culture and craftsmanship. Known for its stunning beauty and versatility, Koa wood has been used for centuries to create a wide range of products, from traditional Hawaiian canoes to modern furniture and musical instruments. This blog will explore the rich history, unique characteristics, and various uses of Hawaiian Koa wood and why it is so unique and sought after. History of Hawaiian Koa Wood Hawaiian Koa wood comes from the Acacia koa tree, native to the Hawaiian Islands. Historically, Koa wood played a crucial role in Hawaiian society. The early Hawaiians used Koa to build canoes, surfboards, and weapons. It was also used to build homes and for various ceremonial items. Koa wood was...

Read More
Necklaces From Tangling

How to Keep Necklaces From Tangling

Necklaces can be a beautiful addition to any outfit but can be incredibly frustrating when tangled. Whether you’re wearing, storing, or traveling with necklaces, there are ways to keep them...

Published

How to Keep Necklaces From Tangling

Necklaces can be a beautiful addition to any outfit but can be incredibly frustrating when tangled. Whether you’re wearing, storing, or traveling with necklaces, there are ways to keep them from becoming a knotted mess. Here’s how you can keep your necklaces tangle-free, using intelligent techniques and a bit of planning. Why Do Necklaces Get Tangled? Necklaces get tangled for a few reasons. First, the thin and flexible chains can quickly wrap around each other or other objects. Second, necklaces stored together in a drawer or jewelry box can shift and move, leading to tangling. Finally, wearing multiple necklaces without considering their length, weight, or material can result in them twisting together. Understanding these causes can help you prevent tangling in the future. How to Keep Necklaces From Tangling When...

Read More
Tips for Finding the Perfect Rocking Chair: Buying Guide

Tips for Finding the Perfect Rocking Chair: Buy...

The rocking chair can be one of the best choices for creating a welcoming, comfortable home setting. However, with many styles and features, buying the right rocking chair can take...

Published

Tips for Finding the Perfect Rocking Chair: Buying Guide

The rocking chair can be one of the best choices for creating a welcoming, comfortable home setting. However, with many styles and features, buying the right rocking chair can take time and effort. In this blog post, you will get the necessary information and factors to consider and make the right decision to identify the best rocking chair. We will address the advantages of rocking chairs, discuss the options regarding different varieties, and list points to note if you're purchasing one. At the end of the guide, you will know what it takes to find wood rocking chairs and make your home a place of relaxation. What is A Rocking Chair? The rocking chair gently and rhythmically moves back and forth with its curvature glides or rockers attached to the...

Read More
How Long Does Furniture Last and When to Replace it?

How Long Does Furniture Last and When to Replac...

For ages, talented artisans have advanced their skills and developed elegant and functional furniture pieces out of wood passed down from generation to generation. Even though furniture making has already...

Published

How Long Does Furniture Last and When to Replace it?

For ages, talented artisans have advanced their skills and developed elegant and functional furniture pieces out of wood passed down from generation to generation. Even though furniture making has already been updated to adopt new techniques and materials, fine woodwork is still considered the highest quality because of its durability, beauty, and ability to enhance any space. Let's explore the factors that affect durability and look at different types of furniture and when it's time to get a newer one from a Hawaiian furniture store.  Factors Affecting Furniture Lifespan Quality of materials The first essential thing for a durable furniture piece is to use high-quality materials. Wood is the classic standard material for fine furniture, typically formed by hardwoods such as oak, walnut, or cherry. These woods are naturally firm...

Read More
Do Men Wear Engagement Rings?

Do Men Wear Engagement Rings?

Engagement rings symbolize the union and vow for eternity between lovers. Traditionally, women wore rings, representing marriage. Society is changing its norms, breaking the stereotypes about how couples should wear...

Published

Do Men Wear Engagement Rings?

Engagement rings symbolize the union and vow for eternity between lovers. Traditionally, women wore rings, representing marriage. Society is changing its norms, breaking the stereotypes about how couples should wear wedding rings. Another cultural shift is the rise in demand for men to wear engagement rings. The ring has become a standard in engagement ceremonies and a symbol of their commitment to their partners. This blog post will explore the history of engagement rings, examine why only women wore them traditionally, and consider the changing views that have surfaced recently. We'll also discuss the different types of koa rings for men available today. History of Engagement Rings The custom of selecting and exchanging rings as commitment signs dates back thousands of years. The Egyptians wore engagement rings made of reeds...

Read More
The Best Christmas Ornaments to Decorate Your Tree

The Best Christmas Ornaments to Decorate Your Tree

When it comes to decorating the tree, there are plenty of cute ornaments to choose from, but the best Christmas ornaments are those that capture a personal moment in time...

Published

The Best Christmas Ornaments to Decorate Your Tree

When it comes to decorating the tree, there are plenty of cute ornaments to choose from, but the best Christmas ornaments are those that capture a personal moment in time and tell a story. Whether it's something from your favorite vacation spot or the first year your child saw Santa, these one-of-a-kind ornaments will be cherished for years to come. Ornaments are a longstanding tradition of the holidays and a great way to celebrate the special people in your life. Oftentimes, they're also a great way to bring in a new color or theme to your decor. For example, if you're going for a vintage or rustic vibe, you can find plenty of antique glass ornaments, like this blown-glass quetzal, to add some whimsy and fun to your tree. But...

Read More
Great Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July

Great Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July

With a three-day weekend smack dab in the middle of summer, the Fourth of July is a holiday that’s ripe for backyard barbecues, parades, and fireworks. But there are many...

Published

Great Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July

With a three-day weekend smack dab in the middle of summer, the Fourth of July is a holiday that’s ripe for backyard barbecues, parades, and fireworks. But there are many other ways to celebrate the holiday in a meaningful and memorable way. Here are a few of our favorites. Honor the Sacrifices of Fallen Soldiers Remember the men and women who have served our country by visiting a war memorial like Gettysburg or a national monument like the USS Arizona and the USS Missouri in Pearl Harbor. These monuments are powerful and important reminder of the sacrifices that have been made in the name of freedom and liberty. Support the work of memorial associations by purchasing mementos made from the actual teak deck of the USS Missouri. This is also...

Read More
Top 10 Best Gifts for Dad

Top 10 Best Gifts for Dad

  Dads can be notoriously difficult to shop for, especially if they insist that they have everything they need. That's why we've put together this list of the most innovative...

Published

Top 10 Best Gifts for Dad

  Dads can be notoriously difficult to shop for, especially if they insist that they have everything they need. That's why we've put together this list of the most innovative gifts for Dad this year. #10.  Flux Earbuds with charging case.  If your Dad loves his tunes, get him new earbuds with a sleek power bank case. Intelligent noise reduction feature. IPX4 waterproof, so they are safe from splashing water.  At Best Buy for $26. #9.  Smart Wi-Fi outdoor movie projector.  Show movies from you phone using the Anker Nebula Solar Portable projector that connects to your phone. 1080p resolution. 400 lumens brightness. Projection size up to 120". At Anker Nebula for $460. #8. Portable Fire Pit to keep Dad Cozy in the backyard or camping.  Best for the money...

Read More
Live the History of the USS Missouri Battleship

Live the History of the USS Missouri Battleship

The USS Missouri Battleship is one of the most famous ships in the history of our nation. Affectionately known as “Mighty Mo,” this historic battleship is a popular attraction for...

Published

Live the History of the USS Missouri Battleship

The USS Missouri Battleship is one of the most famous ships in the history of our nation. Affectionately known as “Mighty Mo,” this historic battleship is a popular attraction for visitors from all over the world. But did you know that the USS Missouri is also home to a unique and special museum? The Heart of the Missouri tour is a must-do for all ship lovers. This special tour allows guests to explore the belly of this massive warship and discover firsthand what life was like on board. Furthermore, the craftsmen of Martin & MacArthur have created keepsake mementos from the original teak deck of the USS Missouri, using the same teak the General Douglas MacArthur stood upon to witness the surrender of the Japanese, ending World War II. https://bit.ly/41gv2WS....

Read More
Best Mother's Day Gifts

Best Mother's Day Gifts

When it comes to picking the perfect Mother's Day gift, there are many options out there. Some are practical, some are pretty, and some are just plain fun. However, no...

Published

Best Mother's Day Gifts

When it comes to picking the perfect Mother's Day gift, there are many options out there. Some are practical, some are pretty, and some are just plain fun. However, no matter what you choose to give Mom this year, it's important that it's something she'll truly appreciate. So, we've rounded up the best gifts our customers are loving for this Mother's Day, so you can make sure your present is exactly what she wants and needs. One-of-a-Kind Items That Are Handcrafted. While there are plenty of store-bought Mother's Day gifts out there, it's much more thoughtful to give Mom a gift she can't get anywhere else. This includes hand-crafted jewelry, home décor and accessories. A gift she can't get anywhere else makes her feel more special, and it shows that...

Read More
The History of Hula Kahiko

The History of Hula Kahiko

Hula represents a rich tapestry of Hawaii’s past, with tales of war, love and chiefs, and themes that trace back to the first Hawaiians residing in these islands. The chants,...

Published

The History of Hula Kahiko

Hula represents a rich tapestry of Hawaii’s past, with tales of war, love and chiefs, and themes that trace back to the first Hawaiians residing in these islands. The chants, dance moves and music that comprise hula are a way of keeping these stories alive as well as honoring the gods and goddesses of Hawaii. In ancient times, no written language existed in the Islands, so hula became an important form of storytelling. Every hand gesture, footstep and sway of the hips represented an important part of telling a story. Originally, the dance was performed for sacred occasions to honor the gods. It was an important way to celebrate the gods and show appreciation for them. Today, hula is still celebrated in Hawaii and performed at ceremonies. It has become...

Read More
USS Missouri - A Definitive Moment in American History

USS Missouri - A Definitive Moment in American ...

Among the many historic ships that have served America, the battleship Missouri has been a defining moment for the nation. A 45,000 ton Iowa class battleship, she was commissioned in...

Published

USS Missouri - A Definitive Moment in American History

Among the many historic ships that have served America, the battleship Missouri has been a defining moment for the nation. A 45,000 ton Iowa class battleship, she was commissioned in June 1944 and joined the Pacific Third Fleet the same month. Her first mission was escorting aircraft carriers through the seas while providing dense antiaircraft fire when needed. The Mighty Mo became the flagship of the Pacific Fleet, bringing home America’s victories in the battles of Iwo Jima and Okinawa. She also carried out bombing raids over Tokyo and provided the Allied Forces with firepower against Japan’s home islands, a crucial part of the war effort in the Pacific theater. What Makes the USS Missouri so Special in American History The last battleship to be constructed by the United States,...

Read More
Hiroshi Tagami - Hawaii Artist

Hiroshi Tagami - Hawaii Artist

Like many of his contemporaries, Hawaii artist Hiroshi Tagami labored in the pineapple fields as a child. After he returned home from the Korean War, the GI Bill gave Hiroshi...

Published

Hiroshi Tagami - Hawaii Artist

Like many of his contemporaries, Hawaii artist Hiroshi Tagami labored in the pineapple fields as a child. After he returned home from the Korean War, the GI Bill gave Hiroshi the chance to attend the Honolulu Academy of Arts and study painting. His work soon drew attention and he began selling his paintings at the Honolulu Zoo fence. He met Richard Hart, a gifted ceramist and business partner. Together, they created a horticulturist's paradise in Kahaluu Valley that became a place of healing and art for them both. This one-acre garden, filled with rare plants and animals (including a lion in those days), remains an artistic statement to this day Hiroshi's paintings evoke the mystical qualities of Hawai'i and his deep spiritual connection with the islands. His work is rich...

Read More
The History of Koa Wood in Hawaii

The History of Koa Wood in Hawaii

During the time of the first Hawaiian monarchs, Koa was revered as the wood that gave warriors their strength and power. They used Koa to make canoes, weapons and other...

Published

The History of Koa Wood in Hawaii

During the time of the first Hawaiian monarchs, Koa was revered as the wood that gave warriors their strength and power. They used Koa to make canoes, weapons and other items for daily life. They also carved long tree trunks into surfboards and fashioned bowls, called umeke, for serving food. Today, koa wood is still revered as the wood of the Hawaii monarchs and ali’i. It is a beautiful, rich wood that is prized worldwide for its unique characteristics. It is a hardwood that grows only in Hawaii and can only be harvested sustainably. It is a strong, durable and beautiful wood that is used to make fine furniture and accessories. Whether you are in the market for a new bed frame, dining table or any other Koa-based home decor...

Read More
Koa Wood Watches Have a Rich Heritage

Koa Wood Watches Have a Rich Heritage

Wooden watches have a few things going for them: they are light-weight most of them are half the weight of a watch with a metal band, they are hypo-allergenic so...

Published

Koa Wood Watches Have a Rich Heritage

Wooden watches have a few things going for them: they are light-weight most of them are half the weight of a watch with a metal band, they are hypo-allergenic so a good choice for those with metal allergies and these timber timepieces can also look better with age due to the patina of the wood being conditioned by the oils from the skin. Koa is a beautiful and precious Hawaiian wood. It adorns the walls and floors of the 'Iolani Palace in Hawaii. It is the source of all things that are beautiful about Hawai'i and its culture from outrigger canoes and the spawning of surfboards and ukuleles, to the most exquisite carvings and furniture. How is Koa sourced? Koa wood is a precious and rare wood only found in...

Read More
Hawaiian Art of Feather Lei

Hawaiian Art of Feather Lei

The feather lei is one of the oldest and most traditional art forms in Hawaiian culture. It symbolizes the spirit of Hawaii and is often a sign of respect, dignity,...

Published

Hawaiian Art of Feather Lei

The feather lei is one of the oldest and most traditional art forms in Hawaiian culture. It symbolizes the spirit of Hawaii and is often a sign of respect, dignity, and strength. Feather lei were once made for high-ranking Hawaiian ali'i (chiefs). These lei, cloaks, capes and helmets were worn only by a select few who held certain positions of authority.   The tradition of making feather lei is a highly respected art in Hawaii, as it is considered to be a skill that requires patience and time. Today, there are many respected kupuna (traditionally trained) lei hulu makers who still invest their time and aloha into this art form.  One such feather artist is Boris Huang who studied under the legendary feather master Aunty Mary Lou Kekuewa. Some of...

Read More
All-Koa Casket for Princess Kawananakoa Built by Martin & MacArthur

All-Koa Casket for Princess Kawananakoa Built b...

  HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The casket for late Hawaiian heiress Abigail Kawananakoa, was created by Martin & MacArthur.  It took months to make.  Michael Tam, president and CEO, says they...

Published

All-Koa Casket for Princess Kawananakoa Built by Martin & MacArthur

  HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - The casket for late Hawaiian heiress Abigail Kawananakoa, was created by Martin & MacArthur.  It took months to make.  Michael Tam, president and CEO, says they were contacted last June by Kawananakoa’s office about creating a casket.  “I was grateful that they called us and honored and thrilled that we would get that call,” said Tam.  Martin & MacArthur has been making handmade wood furniture and specialty pieces for more than 60 years.   Kawananakoa’s casket is the result of months of specialty craftsmanship, research about the caskets of alii or royalty, and a sense of Hawaiian place. Tam says the koa wood comes from a fallen tree on Hawaii island. “The wood comes from a tree that’s 165 years old and it grew up in...

Read More
Why Koa Wood Furniture is Better Than any other Wood Furniture?

Why Koa Wood Furniture is Better Than any other...

For instance, Koa wood is a better choice than Mango wood for building furniture. While both types of wood are natural, Mango has a darker color and is slightly harder...

Published

Why Koa Wood Furniture is Better Than any other Wood Furniture?

For instance, Koa wood is a better choice than Mango wood for building furniture. While both types of wood are natural, Mango has a darker color and is slightly harder than Koa. While this may not be important for most woodworkers, it is significant if you plan to use your furniture for years and want to make sure that it stays beautiful. The background of Koa in Hawaii In the Hawaiian islands, the koa tree was cultivated for centuries. It was a valuable resource to islanders, who used the wood for furniture and carving. It was also used to build a variety of tools and weapons. After a time, the tree was introduced to the United States as a timber source. It became popular with furnituremakers and coachbuilders, and was...

Read More
Best Reasons to Buy a Koa Ring Over Any Other Ring

Best Reasons to Buy a Koa Ring Over Any Other Ring

  If you’re looking for a natural, eco-friendly ring for your partner, a Koa ring is a perfect choice. It’s elegant and timeless. Koa wood is endemic to Hawaii and...

Published

Best Reasons to Buy a Koa Ring Over Any Other Ring

  If you’re looking for a natural, eco-friendly ring for your partner, a Koa ring is a perfect choice. It’s elegant and timeless. Koa wood is endemic to Hawaii and is known for its deep rich colors and varied grain patterns. Koa is also a symbol of strength and wisdom. 1. It’s a symbol of love Koa wood is often chosen as a wedding band or engagement ring because it’s an enduring symbol of a special moment in the life of a couple. It’s also popular with eco-conscious people because it’s inlaid with real wood. Reputable companies like Martin & MacArthur do not cut down any Koa trees and only use Koa from previously fallen trees.  Many couples choose koa wood rings as a way to remember their wedding and...

Read More