How to Make a Hawaiian Flower Lei
A traditional Hawaiian lei is a beautiful garland of flowers that symbolizes love, respect, and aloha. Making your own lei is a rewarding craft that connects you to Hawaiian culture and creates a stunning piece of wearable art.
Materials Needed
Flowers:
Fresh flowers like plumeria, orchids, carnations, or marigolds
About 50-75 flowers depending on desired length
Choose flowers that are fully opened but still fresh
Supplies:
Lei needle (or large upholstery needle)
Strong thread or fishing line (about 40-50 inches)
Small scissors
Fresh ti leaves or ferns (optional, for backing)
Small bowl of water to keep flowers fresh
Preparation
Selecting Flowers: Choose flowers that are sturdy and won't wilt quickly. Plumeria and orchids are traditional favorites, but carnations, roses, or even marigolds work well for beginners. Avoid flowers that bruise easily or have very thin petals.
Preparing Your Workspace: Work in a cool area away from direct sunlight. Have a damp cloth nearby to keep your hands clean and flowers fresh.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Threading the Needle: Cut your thread about 6 inches longer than your desired lei length (typically 36-40 inches for adults). Thread your lei needle, leaving about 4 inches of thread as a tail.
Starting the Lei: Tie a small knot at the end of your thread. This prevents the flowers from sliding off as you work.
Stringing the Flowers: Hold each flower by its stem and carefully pierce through the center of the flower head with your needle. For most flowers, enter from the front (petal side) and push through to the back. Gently slide the flower down the thread.
Maintaining Consistency: Keep all flowers facing the same direction for a uniform look. Press each new flower snugly against the previous one to create a full, lush appearance.
Adding Greenery (Optional): Every few flowers, you can add small pieces of ti leaves or ferns for contrast and traditional authenticity. Thread these the same way as flowers.
Creating Fullness: For a fuller lei, you can double up on smaller flowers or alternate between different flower types. This creates beautiful color patterns and texture.
Finishing the Lei: When your lei reaches the desired length, carefully tie the two ends of thread together with several secure knots. Trim any excess thread, leaving small tails.
Final Touches: Gently adjust the flowers so they lay evenly and cover any visible thread. Mist lightly with water if the flowers seem dry.
Tips for Success
Flower Care: Work quickly to prevent wilting, and keep unused flowers in cool water. If you need to take breaks, store your partially completed lei in the refrigerator.
Color Combinations: Traditional combinations include white plumeria with yellow centers, or alternating colors like pink and white. Let your creativity guide you while respecting the cultural significance.
Sizing: Measure around the recipient's neck or head (if it's a head lei) before starting. Adult leis are typically 36-40 inches, while children's leis should be 24-30 inches.
Cultural Considerations
Remember that lei-making is a cherished Hawaiian tradition. Approach this craft with respect and appreciation for its cultural significance. In Hawaiian culture, a lei is given and received with love and should never be refused when offered genuinely.
Storage and Care
Fresh flower leis last 2-4 days when stored properly in the refrigerator in a plastic bag with a damp paper towel. For special occasions, make your lei the day you plan to wear or give it for maximum freshness and beauty.
Creating a Hawaiian lei is both an art and a meditation, connecting you to generations of tradition while creating something beautiful to share with others.
