Lei making in Hawaii is more than just stringing flowers together; it’s an immersive cultural experience that connects you to the islands’ rich heritage. It’s a tangible way to participate in a tradition of aloha, celebration, and respect for nature.
The History and Significance of Lei
The lei, as we know it, has roots stretching back to ancient Polynesia. Early Polynesians brought the tradition to Hawaii, where it evolved alongside the islands’ unique flora and cultural practices. Initially, lei were created not just for adornment, but as offerings to the gods, symbols of peace, and identifiers of social status. The materials used, from flowers and shells to feathers and seeds, each carried their own specific meaning. Certain lei were reserved for ali’i (chiefs) and were considered sacred. Over time, the custom broadened to encompass personal celebrations, greetings, and departures. Even today, the spirit of giving and receiving lei embodies the true meaning of aloha—love, compassion, and connection.
Gathering Your Materials: Flowers and Foliage
Before you can start stringing, you need materials! The types of flowers and foliage you choose are crucial to your lei’s beauty and meaning. While you can purchase pre-cut flowers, consider gathering your own – responsibly, of course. If you are picking flowers, always ask permission first. Avoid trespassing on private property or disturbing natural habitats. A simple, “Excuse me, would it be alright if I gathered a few flowers for a lei?” can go a long way. When foraging, opt for flowers that are already on the ground or those that can be lightly pruned without harming the plant. Never strip a plant bare. Common choices include:
Plumeria (Frangipani): Perhaps the most iconic lei flower, plumeria is known for its sweet fragrance and variety of colors. They’re readily available and relatively easy to string due to their sturdy stems. Many hotels and even public grounds will happily let you gather fallen flowers.
Orchids: These delicate blooms add elegance and come in a rainbow of hues. Dendrobium orchids are particularly popular for lei making due to their durability.
Pikake (Arabian Jasmine): Highly prized for its intoxicating scent, pikake is traditionally associated with royalty and romance. They are smaller and more delicate than plumeria, requiring a bit more patience to string.
Ilima: These tiny, delicate yellow-orange flowers are considered the flower of Oahu. They require a massive amount of flowers to create a single strand, making them incredibly special.
Tuberose: Another fragrant option. Tuberose offers a strong, heady scent that can be overpowering for some. A little goes a long way, and they are often used sparingly or blended with other flowers.
Don’t forget foliage! Leaves and ferns can add texture, color, and fullness to your lei. Ti leaves, ferns like asparagus fern and leatherleaf fern, and even small leaves from hibiscus plants can work well. As with flowers, gather responsibly and only take what you need.
A Word on Invasive Species: Be mindful of invasive plant species. Avoid using them in your lei as this can contribute to their spread. Instead, focus on native or non-invasive options.
Where to Purchase Flowers: If you’re not able to gather your own, you can purchase lei flowers from local flower shops, farmers’ markets, and even some grocery stores. Look for flowers that are fresh, brightly colored, and free from blemishes. The cost can vary widely depending on the type of flower and the time of year. Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $20 for a bundle of flowers suitable for making a simple lei. One of the best places to buy flowers is between 4 AM – 6 AM at the Honolulu Flower Market. It’s a real market, not just a tourist trap!
Essential Tools and Techniques
Once you have your flowers and foliage, you’ll need a few essential tools:
Lei Needle: This is a long, sturdy needle specifically designed for stringing lei. They come in various sizes; a longer needle is generally easier to work with. You can find lei needles at most craft stores or online retailers for around $5-$10.
Thread or String: Choose a strong, durable thread that won’t break easily. Dental floss is a surprisingly good option, as it’s strong and readily available. You can also use waxed nylon thread or fishing line.
Scissors or Clippers: For trimming stems and preparing the flowers.
Beeswax (Optional): Running your thread through beeswax before stringing can help to strengthen it and prevent tangling.
Stringing Techniques: There are several different methods for stringing lei. Here are two common techniques:
Kui (Piercing): This is the most common method. Thread your needle with a generous length of string (at least 6 feet for a standard lei). Tie a knot at one end, leaving a short tail. Hold a flower in your non-dominant hand and carefully pierce through the center of the corolla (the base of the petals) with the needle. Slide the flower down the string. Repeat this process, overlapping each flower slightly, until you reach the desired length. A common mistake is to make the needle to blunt or not sharp enough which makes it hard to thread. Keep the angle consistent.
Hili (Braiding/Twisting): This method involves braiding or twisting strands of raffia, yarn, or other materials and attaching flowers along the way. It’s often used for lei made with fragile flowers like ilima that would be easily damaged by a needle. You’ll need three strands of your chosen material. Tie the strands together at one end and begin braiding. As you braid, insert the stems of the flowers into the braid, securing them with each twist. This technique requires more practice but results in a sturdier and often longer-lasting lei. These types of lei are more suited for dry flowers than fresh ones like plumeria.
Tips for Successful Stringing:
Prepare your flowers: Remove any excess leaves or stems that might get in the way. If using plumeria, gently pull off the calyx (the green base) to prevent browning.
Keep your flowers fresh: If you’re not stringing immediately, store your flowers in the refrigerator in a plastic bag with a damp paper towel.
Overlap your flowers: This creates a fuller, more visually appealing lei.
Don’t pull too tight: String the flowers snugly, but avoid pulling the thread so tightly that you damage them.
Finishing your lei: Once you’ve reached the desired length, carefully tie off the ends of the string with a secure knot. Trim any excess string. For a polished look, you can cover the knot with a small piece of ribbon or fabric.
Lei Making Workshops and Classes in Hawaii
If you’re looking for a more structured learning experience, consider taking a lei making workshop or class. Many hotels, cultural centers, and flower shops throughout the islands offer these classes, which typically last from 1 to 3 hours. Prices range from $30 to $100 per person, depending on the materials provided and the length of the class.
Oahu:
Lei Hulu Workshop at Bishop Museum: Explore Native Hawaiian featherwork during this hands-on experience. Materials are sourced locally, where possible. Cost is $175 per person which includes admission to the museum.Bishop Museum Calendar
Waikiki Beach Activities: Offers a basic introductory class. While not the main feature, it’s a fun option when you spend a day at the beach! They will provide flowers and lei needles. Cost is $45 per person.waikikibeachactivities.com
Hana Pa’a Hawaii: Hana Pa’a Hawaii offers unique lauhala weaving classes, not strictly lei making. You’ll learn to weave roses and other flowers that don’t easily wilt. These are treasured skills.Hana Pa’a Hawaii Workshops
Maui:
Old Lahaina Luau: A cultural celebration including crafts. These are demonstrations, not hands-on classes. It’s still an immersive way to experience lei making. Admission to the luau is required.Old Lahaina Luau
Maui Tropical Plantation: Often have demonstrations and workshops with local artisans. Check their calendar of events for availability. Prices vary.Maui Tropical Plantation
Kauai:
Smith Family Garden Luau: Similar to Old Lahaina Luau, may offer lei making demonstrations as part of their luau experience. Admission to the luau is required.Smith Family Garden Luau
Hawaii Island (Big Island):
Volcano Art Center: Offers a variety of art and culture workshops, including lei making. Check their schedule for upcoming classes. Prices vary.Volcano Art Center Workshops
Online Resources: If traveling to Hawaii is not immediate, and you’re not quite ready to book a class, many online tutorials can guide you through the process. YouTube is a great resource for visual learners.
What to Expect in a Lei Making Class: Most classes provide all the necessary materials, including flowers, foliage, needles, and thread. A knowledgeable instructor will guide you through the process step-by-step, teaching you about the different types of flowers, the history of lei making, and basic stringing techniques. You’ll leave the class with your own handmade lei, a newfound appreciation for Hawaiian culture, and the skills to continue making lei on your own. They will often touch on the cultural etiquette of lei giving and receiving.
Proper Lei Etiquette: Giving and Receiving
Giving and receiving a lei is a gesture of aloha, but like any cultural exchange, understanding the etiquette is essential. Here are a few guidelines:
Presenting a Lei: When giving a lei, present it with a smile and a warm greeting. Place the lei gently around the recipient’s neck, allowing it to hang freely. Avoid throwing the lei or placing it over someone’s head from behind.
Receiving a Lei: Accept the lei with gratitude and appreciation. It’s considered polite to wear the lei immediately, at least for a short period of time. If you have long hair, try to keep it on top of the lei. Avoid removing the lei in front of the person who gave it to you, as this can be seen as disrespectful.
Respect for the Lei: Treat the lei with respect. Avoid placing it on the ground or in a place where it might be stepped on. If you need to remove the lei, hang it in a place of honor, such as on a hat rack or a picture frame. It’s believed that a lei carries the spirit of aloha, so treat it accordingly.
Lei Made with Love: A lei made with love is the best gift, better than any fancy purchased lei. Personalize your lei using different flowers, and choose colors based on the recipients favorite color.
What about pregnant women? The only exception to wearing a lei is for pregnant women. It’s still wonderful to make a lei for someone who is pregnant, but do not place the lei on their neck. This is mostly a common superstition, but it is best to be sensitive to someone’s potential concerns.
Sustainable Lei Making Practices
As you embrace the art of lei making, consider the environmental impact of your choices. Here are a few ways to practice sustainable lei making:
Forage Responsibly: As mentioned earlier, gather flowers and foliage ethically and sustainably. Avoid trespassing, disturbing habitats, and using invasive species.
Choose Local Flowers: Opt for locally grown flowers whenever possible. This supports local farmers and reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting flowers from afar.
Compost Your Lei: After the lei has served its purpose, compost the flowers and foliage. This returns valuable nutrients to the soil and reduces waste.
Repurpose Your Lei: Get creative and repurpose your lei. Dried flowers can be used in potpourri or other crafts. You can also press flowers to preserve their beauty.
Consider Seed Lei: Instead of only using flowers, consider making leis that use seeds. These can last longer and be reused as wall decor. Some can be planted to further support the environment.
Beyond Flowers: Different Types of Lei
While flower lei are the most common, there are many other types of lei that showcase the diversity of Hawaiian culture and materials.
Shell Lei: Made from intricate arrangements of tiny shells, shell lei are prized for their beauty and durability. They often require hours of painstaking work to create.
Seed Lei: As mentioned earlier, seed lei are made from a variety of seeds, such as kukui nuts, job’s tears, and wiliwili seeds. They can be quite ornate and are often considered heirlooms. Seed leis may be strung in different methods than fresh leis.
Feather Lei (Lei Hulu): Feather lei are among the most prestigious and intricate types of lei. They require specialized skills and materials, and are traditionally associated with Hawaiian royalty.
Lei Po’o: Technically meaning head lei, these are wreaths or circlets worn on the head, these are popular for hula dancers and special occasions.
Lei Kukui: These use the nuts of the kukui tree. The nuts are often polished and dyed black, brown, or other colors. These are less fragile than fresh lei.
The Enduring Legacy of Lei Making
Lei making is more than just a craft; it’s a living tradition that embodies the spirit of aloha. Whether you’re stringing flowers for a loved one, attending a lei making class, or simply appreciating the beauty of a lei, you’re participating in a cultural practice that has been passed down through generations. By understanding the history, techniques, and etiquette of lei making, you can deepen your connection to Hawaii and its rich cultural heritage.
FAQ Section
What is the best time of day to make a lei?
The best time of day to make a lei is in the morning when the flowers are freshest and the weather is cooler. If you’re gathering your own flowers, aim to do so early in the day before the sun gets too strong.
How long will a lei last?
The lifespan of a lei depends on the types of flowers used and how it’s stored. Plumeria lei can last for several days if kept refrigerated in a plastic bag with a damp paper towel. More delicate flowers like orchids may only last for a day or two. Dry flower leis can last much longer, so consider these options if you need to travel.
Can I bring a lei back home with me?
Yes, you can bring a lei back home with you, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, check with your airline and the agricultural regulations of your destination to ensure that it’s permitted. Some countries have strict rules about importing plant materials to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. If you’re allowed to bring a lei, pack it carefully in a plastic bag or container to protect it during transport. Be aware that fresh flower leis may not last long in transit, so consider a dried flower or seed lei for a more durable option. Agricultural restrictions may vary based on your destination.
Is it disrespectful to throw away a lei?
Because the lei symbolizes “Aloha” or love, respect and caring, it is disrespectful to throw it away. Instead, it is considered respectful to return the lei to the earth by hanging it on a tree, burying it or returning the flowers to the ocean. Treat the lei as you would a gift, with love and respect.
Where can I learn more about leis in Hawaii?
You can learn a lot about leis through online research and in libraries, but the best way to immerse yourself in the history and tradition is by visiting a museum during your trip. These museums have exhibits to learn more about the lei, as well as classes or cultural activities.
References List
Bishop Museum
Waikiki Beach Activities
Hana Pa’a Hawaii
Old Lahaina Luau
Maui Tropical Plantation
Smith Family Garden Luau
Volcano Art Center
University of Hawai’i at Mānoa College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources
United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
Ready to experience the magic of lei making for yourself? Whether you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or simply want to connect with Hawaiian culture from afar, learning to make a lei is a rewarding and unforgettable experience. Start by gathering your materials, exploring different stringing techniques, and embracing the spirit of aloha. Book your lei making class and immerse yourself in the traditions of Hawaii. Your hands and heart will thank you! And remember, the perfect lei is the one made with aloha. Let the spirit of the islands guide your hands and create a beautiful symbol of connection, love, and respect.