Pasifika Fa'a Tuli Table Cloth

The Pasifika Fa'a Tuli Table Cloth is a stunning addition to any cultural celebration, beautifully designed by New Zealand-based artist Phila Te Wiremu¯Lagaluga. Phila's work draws on traditional Pacific tapa and tatau patterns, using bold motifs that evoke the deep stories and ancestral connections of Polynesian cultures. Crafted from durable, heavy-weight polyester, this cloth drapes elegantly over tables for family meals, events, or school presentations. Its vibrant one-sided print stays sharp through multiple machine-washes and resists fading-perfect for indoor or light outdoor use. Featuring symmetrical designs in rich hues, the cloth sparks curiosity about Pacific art forms while offering practical functionality. Folding flat with ease, it transitions effortlessly from dining décor to teaching tool.

Educational Benefits

• Fosters cultural appreciation by exploring Pacific art, tapa traditions and indigenous symbolism.
• Stimulates visual literacy via pattern analysis, symmetry and design interpretation.
• Supports geography and social studies by linking motifs to Pacific regions like Fiji, Samoa and Aotearoa.
• Encourages creative crossover learning in art, history, and storytelling.

Classroom Ideas

• Use as a focal backdrop during lessons on Pacific cultures, prompting discussions about tapa and history.
• Hang as a gallery piece while students design their own tapa-style artworks using paper or textiles.
• Facilitate storytelling sessions where students imagine narratives behind the cloth's motifs.
• Incorporate into performance art; students might drape it as a costume or set piece in cultural presentations.

Safety & Information

• Ages: Suitable for all school settings; supervise toddlers to avoid tripping hazards.
• Measurements: Available in standard sizes (e.g. 150x150cm up to 150x305cm).
• Material: 100% polyester; machine wash warm, tumble-dry low or line-dry.
• Safety: Keep away from open flames and sharp objects; centre carefully on table to prevent slippage.