Turned Wood Art:
Handmade Hawaiian Wooden Bowls (Calabash Bowls)

Elegant Symbols of Hawaiian Heritage

Calabash bowls, or ʻumeke in Hawaiian, hold a deep place in Hawaiian history. Dating back centuries before European contact, these versatile vessels were crafted from the dried and hollowed-out ipu gourd, a testament to the resourcefulness of early Hawaiians.
 
These early handmade wooden bowls served a multitude of purposes, from storing and serving staple foods like poi to being used as tools, scoops, and even musical instruments. The size and quality of a calabash bowl also held cultural significance. Larger bowls, often intricately decorated, were prized possessions of chiefs and symbolized wealth and abundance.
 
Over time, the art of calabash making evolved. While the traditional gourd form remained important, skilled Hawaiian artisans began creating exquisite bowls from wood, particularly prized Koa wood, coconut shells, and even fiber.
 
This shift not only showcased the adaptability of the craft but also opened doors to a wider range of Hawaiian art expression. Today, calabash bowls remain a cherished symbol of Hawaiian heritage; modern calabashes are treasured not just for their beauty and craftsmanship but also for their connection to a rich cultural past.
 
Shop our current inventory of bowls or view our historical collection of Koa Calabash bowls to inspire your custom order.

Shop Current Inventory

Click Images for Calabash Bowl Details and Descriptions

Custom Wooden Bowl Orders

Traditional Hawaiian Calabash Bowls measure 12-18” in diameter and are 5-8” in height.  Click individual bowl photos for detail.
 
All of the turned wood art pieces you see here are designed and handcrafted by Mark and Karen Stebbins at their studio on the Big Island of Hawaii.
 
Koa calabash bowls can range from $250 to $10,000+. Please contact us to order.
 

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