How to Make a Lei
When you arrive in Hawaii, the natives would immediately string beautiful fragrant leis over your shoulders, as a symbol of the friendly aloha spirit. This lovely and colorful accessory has now become a part of different celebrations and is a symbol of friendship, good luck and love. Making a lei isn’t a difficult task, so here’s a simple guide to help you make one.
Kinds Of Lei
While many of us are familiar with floral leis, there are several different kinds used today. They can be divided into two categories.
Fresh leis - These are made with items that can perish, and must be used on the day they are made. Flowers and leaves are the most popular items for making fresh leis. Most common types of flowers you can use are roses, orchids, gardenias, bouganvilla and plumeria.
Permanent leis - These are made with items that don’t wilt and wither immediately. Feathers, hair, teeth, bone, large beads and shells are just a few common examples.
Steps
For a quick and simple lei project, a fresh lei is more ideal because it’s easier to thread. Before you begin, make sure you have all the items you need, including the flowers, sewing needle (or lei needle), fishing line or thread, and scissors.
fresh lei
Choose your flowers, making sure they don’t have any rotten parts or petals that are falling out. You can use just one variety and color, or go wild with several different types. The freedom is yours. Make sure you gather enough, though. You’ll be surprised at the amount of flowers you need for just one lei.
Determine how to string the flowers. You can either thread them in a single pattern, straight through each flower’s center, or in a double or circular pattern through the stem of every flower. The single pattern is the easier option.
Thread the fishing line or the thread through the eye of the needle you’re using.
String each flower in the center. You may need to push the needle through the flesh of the flower. Be careful when doing this, so you won’t prick yourself. Continue until all the flowers have been strung, or until you get the length you want.
Tie the thread together when you’re done, and cut off the excess. Add a ribbon for a more delightful look.
Put a lei around your neck for a delightful and festive look. With these easy steps, you’ll soon have your own beautiful and colorful accessory.