Lei making is an art form deeply embedded in Hawaiian culture, a tangible expression of aloha, love, respect, and celebration. Learning to craft and gift a lei allows you to participate in this beautiful tradition, understanding its profound significance and the mana (spiritual power) it carries. This guide will walk you through the basics of lei making, from choosing the right materials to mastering different techniques, ensuring your leis are not only beautiful but also imbued with the spirit of aloha.
The Significance of Lei in Hawaiian Culture
Leis are more than just pretty adornments; they are potent symbols within Hawaiian culture. They represent affection, greeting, congratulations, farewell, and even reverence. Historically, leis were offered to deities as a form of worship and later became a way to honor chiefs and important figures. The giving and receiving of a lei is a gesture of goodwill and a way to physically embody the spirit of aloha. Understanding this cultural weight adds depth and meaning to the act of lei making.
The type of flower used for a lei can also carry specific significance. For example, the fragrant plumeria is commonly used in leis representing beauty and grace, while the tuberose, known for its intense fragrance, signifies love. The vibrant colors of the flowers can also hold meaning; red often represents passion and power, while yellow symbolizes joy and friendship.
Gathering Your Materials: Flowers and Beyond
The first step in lei making is gathering your materials. This includes the flowers, of course, but also the lei needle (a long, sturdy needle specifically designed for stringing flowers), string or yarn, scissors, and optionally, foliage or other embellishments. Let’s break down each element:
Choosing Your Flowers
The choice of flowers is crucial and depends on personal preference, availability, and the intended meaning of the lei. Common flowers used for lei making include plumeria, orchids, tuberose, pikake (jasmine), ilima, and various native flowers. When selecting flowers, look for blooms that are fresh, free from blemishes, and have a strong fragrance.
Where to find flowers:
- Your Own Garden: If you live in Hawaii or a tropical climate, you may be able to grow your own flowers. This is the most cost-effective and personal option.
- Flower Shops: Local flower shops, especially those specializing in Hawaiian flowers, are a reliable source. They can advise you on seasonal blooms and proper care. Expect to pay around $1-$5 per flower, depending on the type.
- Farmers’ Markets: Farmers’ markets often have vendors selling fresh, locally grown flowers at reasonable prices. Check your local market listings for availability.
- Online Retailers: Several online retailers specialize in shipping Hawaiian flowers nationwide. This is a convenient option if you don’t have access to local sources, but be mindful of shipping costs and freshness. Consider sites like Maui Flower as a starting point for research but compare prices and shipping times carefully.
Pro-tip: Pick your flowers early in the morning when they are at their freshest. If you can’t use them immediately, store them in a cool, dark place, wrapped in damp paper towels or newspaper and placed in a plastic bag.
Selecting Your Lei Needle and String
The lei needle is your primary tool for stringing the flowers. It should be long enough to hold a substantial number of flowers and sturdy enough to pierce through the blossoms without damaging them. Needles typically come in lengths ranging from 8 to 18 inches. Look for needles made of stainless steel or a durable plastic. You can also use large quilting needles if you can’t find a dedicated lei needle.
For the string, you have several options: waxed cotton cord, nylon string, or even doubled-over embroidery floss. The key is to choose a string that is strong enough to hold the weight of the flowers but thin enough to easily pass through the eye of the needle and the flowers themselves. Waxed cotton cord is a popular choice because it’s durable and doesn’t easily fray. Nylon string is another good option for its strength and smooth texture.
Where to Buy Needles and String: Craft stores like Michaels, fabric stores, and online retailers specializing in lei making supplies are good places to find needles and string. A basic lei making kit with a needle and string typically costs around $10-$20.
Adding Foliage and Embellishments (Optional)
While flowers are the main component of a lei, you can also incorporate foliage or other embellishments to add texture, color, and visual interest. Common foliage options include maile leaves (for their fragrance and significance), ti leaves, ferns, and eucalyptus. You can also add small shells, beads, or ribbons for a personal touch. Be mindful of the weight and bulk of any embellishments you add, as they can affect the overall comfort and wearability of the lei.
Lei Making Techniques: A Step-by-Step Guide
There are several different techniques for making leis, each producing a slightly different look and feel. Here are two of the most common methods:
1. The Kui (Stringing) Method
The kui method is the most basic and widely used technique for lei making. It involves simply stringing the flowers onto the needle and thread, creating a continuous strand.
Steps:
- Prepare your flowers: Remove any leaves or stems that are not needed. You can also trim the base of the flowers to make them more uniform in size.
- Thread the needle: Tie a knot at the end of your string, leaving a small tail. Thread the other end of the string through the eye of the lei needle.
- String the flowers: Hold the flower in one hand and carefully pierce the center of the blossom with the needle, pushing it through the flower until it comes out the other side. Gently slide the flower down the string, close to the knot.
- Repeat: Continue stringing flowers onto the needle, placing them close together but not overcrowding them. Decide the amount length based on whom the lei will be gifted.
- Finishing the lei: Once you have reached your desired length, carefully remove the needle from the string. Tie the two ends of the string together securely, creating a closed loop. Trim any excess string.
Tips for Kui:
- To create a fuller lei, use more flowers and pack them tightly together on the string.
- To add variety, alternate different types of flowers or incorporate foliage.
- When stringing the flowers, be mindful of their orientation. You can alternate the direction of the flowers to create a more textured look.
2. The Haku (Braiding) Method
The haku method involves braiding the flowers onto a backing, typically made of raffia or ti leaves. This technique creates a fuller, more durable lei that is often used for special occasions.
Steps:
- Prepare your materials: Cut several strands of raffia or ti leaves to the desired length of your lei. You’ll need three strands to braid.
- Begin braiding: Start braiding the raffia or ti leaves together, creating a sturdy base for your lei. Leave a small tail at each end for tying.
- Attach the flowers: As you braid, insert the stems of the flowers under the braiding strands, securing them in place. Work your way along the length of the braid, adding flowers close together to create a dense and colorful design.
- Secure the flowers: Use small pieces of string or floral wire to further secure the flowers to the braid, if needed.
- Finishing the lei: Once you have reached the desired length, tie the two ends of the braid together securely. Trim any excess raffia or ti leaves.
Tips for Haku:
- The haku method allows for more intricate designs and the incorporation of larger flowers or foliage.
- When attaching the flowers, be sure to hide the stems as much as possible to create a clean and polished look.
- Experiment with different braiding patterns and flower arrangements to create unique and personalized leis.
Caring for Your Leis
Proper care will help your leis stay fresh and vibrant for longer. Here are some tips for storing and handling leis:
- Storage: Store your leis in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. This will help to slow down the wilting process. You can also mist the leis with water before storing them to keep them hydrated.
- Handling: Handle your leis gently to avoid damaging the delicate flowers. Avoid crushing or bending the leis, and keep them away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Longevity: Depending on the type of flowers used and the care provided, leis can last for several days to a week. However, it’s best to make and give them as close to the event as possible for optimal freshness.
The Art of Gifting a Lei: Etiquette and Respect
The manner in which you give and receive a lei is just as important as the lei itself. Here are some guidelines for lei etiquette:
- Offering the Lei: When giving a lei, present it with a smile and a warm greeting. Gently place the lei around their neck, ensuring it drapes evenly on both sides.
- Receiving the Lei: When receiving a lei, accept it graciously and express your appreciation. It is considered impolite to refuse a lei.
- Wearing the Lei: Wear the lei with pride and respect. Avoid taking it off or fidgeting with it unnecessarily.
- Lei Etiquette for Pregnant Women: Tradition suggests avoiding closed leis for pregnant women as it is believed to symbolize the umbilical cord wrapping around the baby’s neck. Open-ended leis or those with a tie are preferred.
Cost Considerations
The cost of making a lei can vary depending on several factors, including the type of flowers used, the quantity needed, and whether you grow your own flowers or purchase them. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Homegrown Flowers: If you grow your own flowers, the cost is minimal, primarily limited to the cost of the lei needle and string (around $10-$20).
- Purchased Flowers: The cost of flowers can range from $1-$5 per flower, depending on the type and availability. A simple lei using 50 plumeria flowers could cost $50-$250 in flowers alone.
- Lei Making Kits: Pre-packaged lei making kits can range from $20-$50 and typically include a selection of flowers, a needle, string, and instructions. These can be a convenient option for beginners.
Example Cost Breakdown:
- Basic Plumeria Lei:
- 50 plumeria flowers: $75 (assuming $1.50 per flower)
- Lei needle and string: $15
- Total: $90
- Orchid and Ti Leaf Haku Lei:
- 20 orchids: $40 (assuming $2 per flower)
- Ti leaves: $5
- Raffia: $5
- Floral wire: $5
- Total: $55
Where to Learn More: Workshops and Resources
If you’re interested in deepening your knowledge of lei making, consider attending a workshop or class. Many community centers, botanical gardens, and cultural organizations offer lei making workshops. These workshops provide hands-on instruction and a chance to learn from experienced lei makers. Check local event listings or contact Hawaiian cultural centers for information on upcoming workshops.
There are also many online resources available, including tutorials, videos, and articles on lei making. Websites like To-Hawaii.com offer a wealth of information on Hawaiian culture, including lei making.
Practical Examples: Lei for Different Occasions
The type of lei you make can be tailored to the specific occasion or recipient. Here are some examples:
- Graduation Lei: A vibrant and colorful lei using a mix of orchids, plumeria, and kukui nuts is often given to graduates to celebrate their achievement.
- Wedding Lei: White or pastel-colored leis made with tuberose, pikake, or orchids are commonly used in weddings to symbolize purity, love, and commitment. Maile leis, known for their fragrance and significance, are also often exchanged between the bride and groom.
- Birthday Lei: Choose the recipient’s favorite flowers or colors to create a personalized birthday lei. Add ribbons or small charms to make it extra special.
- Welcome Lei: A simple and fragrant plumeria lei is a classic way to welcome visitors to Hawaii and share the spirit of aloha.
- Farewell Lei: While traditionally not given as a farewell, you could break tradition by gifting a lei as a symbol of remembrance and well-wishing as someone departs, perhaps incorporating specific flowers with meanings of friendship or positive journey.
The Cultural Importance of Sustainability
As you practice lei making, it is important to consider the environmental impact of your materials and practices. Choose locally grown flowers whenever possible to support local farmers and reduce your carbon footprint. Avoid using pesticides or herbicides on your flowers, and dispose of floral waste responsibly by composting or recycling. Consider using alternatives to plastic string, such as natural fibers like raffia or cotton cord.
Troubleshooting: Common Lei Making Challenges
Even with careful planning, you might encounter some challenges while making your leis. Here are some common issues and how to address them:
- Flowers breaking: If your flowers are breaking easily, they may be too dry. Try misting them with water and storing them in a cool, humid place before using them. Also, be gentle when piercing them with the needle.
- String fraying: If your string is fraying, try using a thicker string or applying a small amount of wax to the end to prevent it from unraveling.
- Lei too short or too long: Before you start stringing the flowers, measure the desired length of the lei around your neck or the recipient’s neck to ensure it fits properly.
- Uneven distribution of flowers: Pay attention to the placement of the flowers as you string them to ensure they are evenly distributed and create a balanced look.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding lei making:
What is the best type of flower for making leis?
The best type of flower depends on personal preference, availability, and occasion. Popular choices include plumeria, orchids, tuberose, pikake, and ilima. Choose flowers that are fresh, fragrant, and free from blemishes.
How long does it take to make a lei?
The time it takes to make a lei varies depending on the technique used and your level of experience. A simple kui lei can take about 1-2 hours to make, while a more elaborate haku lei can take several hours.
Can I use artificial flowers to make a lei?
While it is possible to use artificial flowers, it is not traditional and detracts from the cultural significance of the lei. Fresh flowers are preferred for their natural beauty and symbolism.
How do I dispose of a lei properly?
Traditionally, leis are returned to the earth by hanging them on a tree, burying them, or scattering the flowers in the ocean. This is a sign of respect for the flowers and the spirit of aloha.
Can I ship a lei?
Yes, you can ship a lei, but it is important to pack it carefully to preserve its freshness. Wrap the lei in damp paper towels and place it in a plastic bag. Ship it overnight or express to minimize transit time. Consider using a reputable shipping service that specializes in handling perishable items. Some retailers, like Maui Flower, will ship leis.
Is it disrespectful to take a lei apart?
While taking a lei apart might seem disrespectful, it is sometimes necessary for practical reasons, such as to properly dispose of the flowers. Do so with respect and gratitude for the lei and its meaning.
References List
- MacKenzie, Melody K. Hawaiian Witchcraft: Aloha Magic. Llewellyn Publications, 2005.
- Pukui, Mary Kawena, and Samuel H. Elbert. Hawaiian Dictionary. University of Hawaii Press, 1986.
Ready to embrace the art of lei making and infuse your life with the spirit of aloha? Gather your materials, choose your favorite flowers, and start creating! Whether you’re making a lei for a special occasion or simply to express your love and appreciation, the process itself is a rewarding experience that connects you to Hawaiian culture and tradition. Share your creations with friends and family, and spread the aloha spirit one lei at a time. Don’t just buy a lei – make a memory!
