Folk Arts Workshop at Chase Home - Hawaiian Utility Knife

Deeply rooted in Hawaiian cultural heritage, a niho ‘oki — literally translating to “cutting tooth” — is a traditional utility knife made by lashing a shark tooth securely to a carved wooden handle with natural cordage. Often used as a versatile everyday tool for commoners (makaʻāinana), it was practical for a wide range of tasks, including food preparation, hair cutting, wood carving, bark stripping, and self-defense.

In this hands-on workshop, you will construct your own working niho ‘oki while exploring Hawaiian tool design with Utah artist Kimo Watanabe. Discover how specific angles, materials, and shapes solved complex daily problems through an interactive showcase of authentic and replica pieces. Then, use files and sandpaper to fine-tune a pre-cut wooden handle, set a real shark tooth into place, and master traditional lashing techniques to complete your tool.

A musician, traditional folk artist, and Utah Artist Fellow, Kimo Watanabe dedicates much of his artistic practice to Hawaiian and Samoan carving arts. Mentored by revered master practitioners like Su‘a Sulu‘ape Malama ‘O Mataitoa Keone Nunes and ‘Olohe Lua Umi Kai, Kimo carries forward generations of technique, lineage, and deep cultural intent (kaona). For Kimo, his work is ultimately about honoring heritage and fostering meaningful human connection.

This event is suitable for ages 12 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult registrant.

Please check in within 15 minutes of the start time. At that point, we may make any unoccupied seats available to another interested participant. We would love to accommodate as many people as possible at these workshops. However, our physical space is limited. Thank you for understanding.
If you are on the waitlist or would like to standby on the day of the event, please arrive at the start time and we will try our best to accommodate you.