Crafting Memories: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Graduation Leis

Graduation is a monumental achievement, a culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and countless late nights. What better way to celebrate this special occasion than with a handcrafted graduation lei? These beautiful adornments, traditionally symbols of love, respect, and accomplishment, add a personal touch to the commencement ceremony and create lasting memories. This comprehensive guide will walk you through various lei-making techniques, empowering you to create stunning and meaningful leis for your loved ones.

Why Make Your Own Graduation Lei?

While store-bought leis are readily available, crafting your own offers several advantages:

* **Personalization:** You can customize the lei with specific colors, materials, and embellishments to reflect the graduate’s personality, interests, and school colors.
* **Cost-Effectiveness:** Making your own lei can be significantly cheaper than purchasing one, especially if you’re making multiple leis.
* **Sentimental Value:** A handmade lei carries a special significance, representing the time, effort, and love you put into creating it. It’s a gift that will be cherished for years to come.
* **Creative Outlet:** Lei making is a fun and rewarding craft that allows you to express your creativity and connect with Hawaiian traditions.

Materials You’ll Need

The materials you’ll need will vary depending on the type of lei you choose to make. However, here’s a general list of essential supplies:

* **Flowers:** Fresh flowers are the most traditional choice, but you can also use artificial flowers, ribbons, candies, money, or other materials.
* **Needle:** A long, sturdy needle with a large eye is essential for stringing the materials.
* **Thread or String:** Choose a strong thread or string that complements the color of your materials. Dental floss, fishing line, or embroidery floss are excellent options.
* **Scissors or Wire Cutters:** For trimming flowers, ribbons, or other materials.
* **Ruler or Measuring Tape:** To ensure consistent length and spacing.
* **Optional Embellishments:** Ribbons, beads, shells, candy, small toys, money, or other decorative items to personalize the lei.
* **Lei Needle Threader:** (Optional) Helpful for threading the needle, especially with thicker materials.

Types of Graduation Leis

There are several different types of graduation leis you can make, each with its own unique look and technique. Here are a few popular options:

* **Flower Lei:** The most traditional type of lei, made by stringing together fresh flowers. Orchids, carnations, roses, and plumeria are common choices.
* **Ribbon Lei:** A versatile and long-lasting option made by folding and stringing ribbons. You can use a single color or create intricate patterns with multiple colors.
* **Candy Lei:** A fun and festive lei made by wrapping candies in cellophane and stringing them together. A popular choice for younger graduates.
* **Money Lei:** A practical and appreciated lei made by folding and attaching money to a ribbon or string. A great way to give a monetary gift in a creative way.
* **Kukui Nut Lei:** A more traditional Hawaiian lei made from polished kukui nuts. Often combined with flowers or ribbons.
* **Feather Lei:** A beautiful and intricate lei made from feathers, often used for special occasions.
* **Yarn Lei:** A colorful and textured lei made from yarn pom poms or braided yarn strands.

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions for Different Lei Types

Let’s dive into detailed instructions for making some of the most popular types of graduation leis:

1. Making a Fresh Flower Lei

This classic lei is a beautiful and fragrant way to celebrate graduation. Here’s how to make one:

**Step 1: Prepare the Flowers**

* Choose fresh flowers that are in good condition. Remove any damaged or wilted petals.
* If using flowers with long stems, trim the stems to about 1-2 inches.
* To keep the flowers fresh longer, you can soak them in water for a few hours before stringing them.

**Step 2: Thread the Needle**

* Cut a length of thread or string that is about twice the desired length of the lei. This will give you plenty of room to work with.
* Thread the needle with the string and tie a knot at the end.

**Step 3: String the Flowers**

* Hold a flower in your non-dominant hand.
* Insert the needle through the center of the flower, near the base of the petals.
* Gently pull the needle and thread through the flower.
* Slide the flower down the thread, leaving about 1/2 inch of space between each flower.
* Repeat this process with the remaining flowers, creating a continuous strand.

**Step 4: Tie Off the Lei**

* Once you have strung all the flowers, carefully remove the needle from the thread.
* Tie the two ends of the thread together securely, creating a circle. Make sure the knot is tight and won’t come undone.
* Trim any excess thread.

**Step 5: Finishing Touches**

* You can add ribbons or other embellishments to the lei to personalize it.
* Store the lei in the refrigerator until you are ready to give it.

**Tips for Making a Flower Lei:**

* Choose flowers that are sturdy and will hold up well during the ceremony.
* Avoid flowers that are too delicate or easily bruised.
* If you are using different types of flowers, arrange them in a pattern or alternating colors.
* To keep the lei fresh, mist it with water periodically.

2. Making a Ribbon Lei

Ribbon leis are durable, versatile, and can be made in a variety of colors and patterns. Here are two popular methods:

**Method 1: Folded Ribbon Lei**

**Step 1: Prepare the Ribbons**

* Choose two or three different colors of ribbon that complement each other. Grosgrain ribbon is a good choice because it is durable and easy to work with.
* Cut the ribbons into strips of equal length. The length of the strips will depend on the desired length of the lei. A good starting point is 12-18 inches.
* You’ll need a lot of strips! Calculate the number of strips needed based on the desired lei length and the length of each folded section.

**Step 2: Fold the Ribbons**

* Take one strip of each color of ribbon and stack them on top of each other.
* Fold the stack of ribbons in half, creating a loop at the top.
* Fold the two ends of the ribbons towards the loop, creating a triangle shape.
* Secure the folded ribbons with a small piece of tape or a dab of glue (optional).

**Step 3: String the Folded Ribbons**

* Thread the needle with a strong thread or string and tie a knot at the end.
* Insert the needle through the center of the folded ribbons, near the base of the triangle.
* Gently pull the needle and thread through the ribbons.
* Slide the folded ribbons down the thread, leaving a small space between each set.
* Repeat this process with the remaining folded ribbons, creating a continuous strand.

**Step 4: Tie Off the Lei**

* Once you have strung all the folded ribbons, carefully remove the needle from the thread.
* Tie the two ends of the thread together securely, creating a circle. Make sure the knot is tight and won’t come undone.
* Trim any excess thread.

**Step 5: Finishing Touches**

* You can add beads, charms, or other embellishments to the lei to personalize it.
* Fluff the ribbon folds to create a full and textured look.

**Method 2: Braided Ribbon Lei**

**Step 1: Prepare the Ribbons**

* Choose three different colors of ribbon that complement each other. Satin ribbon works well for this method.
* Cut three long strands of each color of ribbon. The length of the strands will depend on the desired length of the lei. A good starting point is 3 times the desired lei length.

**Step 2: Braid the Ribbons**

* Gather the ends of all nine strands of ribbon together and tie them in a knot.
* Divide the ribbons into three groups of three, each group containing one strand of each color.
* Braid the ribbons together, using a standard three-strand braid technique.
* Continue braiding until you reach the end of the ribbons.

**Step 3: Tie Off the Lei**

* Tie a knot at the end of the braid to secure it.
* Tie the two ends of the braid together securely, creating a circle. Make sure the knot is tight and won’t come undone.
* Trim any excess ribbon.

**Step 4: Finishing Touches**

* You can add beads, charms, or other embellishments to the lei to personalize it.
* Stretch and shape the braid to create a uniform and even look.

3. Making a Candy Lei

A sweet and celebratory option, the candy lei is always a hit. Here’s how to make one:

**Step 1: Gather the Candy**

* Choose a variety of individually wrapped candies in different colors and flavors. Small, lightweight candies work best.
* You’ll need a lot of candy! Estimate the amount based on the desired length of the lei and the size of the candies.

**Step 2: Wrap the Candy**

* Cut squares of cellophane wrap that are large enough to completely wrap each candy.
* Place a candy in the center of a cellophane square.
* Gather the edges of the cellophane together and twist them tightly around the candy.
* Secure the twisted ends with a small piece of tape or a ribbon.

**Step 3: String the Candy**

* Thread the needle with a strong thread or string and tie a knot at the end.
* Insert the needle through the twisted end of the cellophane wrapping, near the candy.
* Gently pull the needle and thread through the wrapping.
* Slide the candy down the thread, leaving a small space between each candy.
* Repeat this process with the remaining candies, creating a continuous strand.

**Step 4: Tie Off the Lei**

* Once you have strung all the candies, carefully remove the needle from the thread.
* Tie the two ends of the thread together securely, creating a circle. Make sure the knot is tight and won’t come undone.
* Trim any excess thread.

**Step 5: Finishing Touches**

* You can add ribbons or other embellishments to the lei to personalize it.
* Space the candies evenly along the lei to create a uniform look.

**Tips for Making a Candy Lei:**

* Choose candies that are individually wrapped for hygiene purposes.
* Wrap the candies tightly to prevent them from falling out.
* Use a variety of colors and flavors to make the lei more visually appealing.

4. Making a Money Lei

A practical and appreciated gift, the money lei is a creative way to give cash. Here’s how to make one:

**Step 1: Prepare the Money**

* Decide on the amount of money you want to include in the lei.
* Use crisp, new bills for the best appearance. If the bills are wrinkled, iron them on a low setting before folding them.

**Step 2: Fold the Money**

* There are several ways to fold the money. Here are a few popular options:
* **Fan Fold:** Fold the bill accordion-style, then fold it in half to create a fan shape.
* **Rose Fold:** Fold the bill into a rose shape using origami techniques. (Search online for tutorials.)
* **Simple Fold:** Fold the bill in half lengthwise, then fold it in half again. This creates a simple, rectangular shape.

**Step 3: Attach the Money**

* There are several ways to attach the money to the lei:
* **Ribbon Method:** Cut small pieces of ribbon and use them to tie the folded money to a longer ribbon or string. Space the money evenly along the ribbon.
* **Glue Dots Method:** Use small glue dots to attach the folded money to a ribbon or string. This method is quick and easy, but the glue dots may not be as secure as ribbon ties.
* **Safety Pin Method:** Use small safety pins to attach the folded money to a ribbon or string. This method is more secure, but it can be more time-consuming.

**Step 4: Assemble the Lei**

* Once you have attached all the money to the ribbon or string, tie the two ends together securely, creating a circle. Make sure the knot is tight and won’t come undone.
* Trim any excess ribbon or string.

**Step 5: Finishing Touches**

* You can add ribbons, flowers, or other embellishments to the lei to personalize it.
* Make sure the money is securely attached to the lei.

**Tips for Making a Money Lei:**

* Use crisp, new bills for the best appearance.
* Fold the money neatly and consistently.
* Attach the money securely to the lei to prevent it from falling off.
* Consider adding a small gift card or a handwritten note to the lei.

Tips for Lei Making Success

* **Plan Ahead:** Decide what type of lei you want to make and gather all the necessary materials before you start.
* **Choose Quality Materials:** Use fresh flowers, durable ribbons, and strong thread or string for the best results.
* **Take Your Time:** Lei making can be time-consuming, so don’t rush the process. Relax and enjoy the creative process.
* **Get Creative:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, materials, and embellishments to create a unique and personalized lei.
* **Practice Makes Perfect:** The more leis you make, the better you’ll become. Don’t be discouraged if your first lei isn’t perfect. Just keep practicing!
* **Preserve Your Lei:** If you’re making a flower lei, store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to give it. Mist it with water periodically to keep it fresh. Ribbon, candy, and money leis can be stored at room temperature.

Lei Etiquette and Traditions

* **Presentation:** When giving a lei, present it with both hands and a smile. It’s customary to place the lei gently around the recipient’s neck.
* **Respect:** A lei is a symbol of love and respect. Treat it with care and avoid throwing it on the ground.
* **Wearing the Lei:** Wear the lei with pride and gratitude. Avoid removing it in the presence of the giver, as this is considered impolite.
* **Storage:** When you’re not wearing the lei, hang it up or lay it flat in a safe place.

Conclusion

Making your own graduation lei is a rewarding and meaningful way to celebrate this special occasion. By following these detailed instructions and tips, you can create beautiful and personalized leis that will be cherished for years to come. So gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and start crafting memories! Congratulations to all the graduates!