Lei Making: The Art of Giving and Receiving Aloha

Lei making is much more than just stringing flowers together; it’s a deeply rooted tradition in the Hawaiian culture, a tangible expression of aloha, love, respect, and connection. It’s about giving a piece of your heart, a representation of your feelings, whether it’s welcome, congratulations, affection, or farewell. From carefully selecting the materials to the intricate weaving techniques, every step holds significance, embodying the spirit of the islands. This article explores the rich tapestry of lei making, providing insights into its cultural importance, materials, techniques, and the practical aspects of creating your own piece of aloha.

The Cultural Significance of Lei

The lei’s history in Hawaii is intertwined with Polynesian voyagers who brought the practice to the islands. While ancient Hawaiians made lei from native materials found in their environment, like seeds, shells, nuts, and feathers, the introduction of vibrant flowers revolutionized lei making. The lei evolved from simple adornments to powerful symbols of status, honor, and affection. They were used in religious ceremonies, to honor chiefs and gods, and to signify peace agreements. The practice of giving lei is a visual representation of aloha, which encompasses love, compassion, and mutual respect. It’s a way of demonstrating appreciation and connection, connecting the giver and receiver in a meaningful exchange.

Understanding the nuances of lei giving helps to truly appreciate the tradition. A lei is never to be refused, doing so is considered disrespectful. It should be worn with respect, allowing it to gracefully drape around the neck and shoulders. In the past, it was considered impolite to wear a lei after leaving the person who gave it to you, however, today it’s more common to wear it as a token of appreciation for a time. Pregnant women, for example, are often given open-ended lei to symbolize an open and smooth birth.

Materials of the Lei: Nature’s Palette

The beauty of lei making lies in the diversity of materials that can be used. While flowers are the most common, lei can also be created from shells, seeds, nuts, leaves, ferns, and even feathers. Each material carries its own unique symbolism and adds to the overall aesthetic of the lei.

Flowers: The Language of Lei

Flowers are the most popular choice for lei making, offering a vibrant spectrum of colors and fragrances. Each flower is associated with different meanings. For example:

• Plumeria: Perhaps the most iconic lei flower, plumeria symbolizes positivity, new beginnings, and beauty. Its sweet fragrance adds to its allure, and it’s relatively easy to string. You can commonly find plumeria trees throughout Hawaii, especially in residential areas.
• Orchid: Representing love, beauty, and sophistication, orchids are often used for special occasions and formal events. Dendrobium orchids are the most common variety used in lei making due to their durability.
• Pikake: Known as the “Hawaiian jasmine,” pikake is prized for its intoxicatingly sweet fragrance. It symbolizes love, romance, and passion. Pikake lei have a special connection to Princess Ka’iulani, who loved them.
• Ilima: This delicate flower, traditionally associated with royalty, represents love and devotion. Ilima lei are often a creamy yellow or orange color and are incredibly delicate, requiring a large amount of flowers to create a single lei.

When selecting flowers, choose fresh, vibrant blooms that are free from blemishes. Consider the color combinations and the overall message you want to convey with your lei.

Non-Floral Materials

Beyond flowers, a range of natural materials can be incorporated into lei to add texture, fragrance, and visual interest.

• Shells: Tiny, iridescent shells, such as the momi shell of Niihau, are highly prized for lei making. Niihau is a privately owned island where shell gathering and lei making traditions are carefully preserved. Shell lei can be quite expensive due to the labor-intensive process of gathering and sorting the shells.
• Seeds and Nuts: Kukui nuts, black coral seeds, and Job’s tears are commonly used for lei. Kukui nut lei are often given as a symbol of protection. The nuts are carefully polished and strung together, creating a beautiful and durable lei.
• Leaves and Ferns: Maile leaves, with their distinctive fragrance, are often used in lei for celebrations and special occasions. Worn by men and women, and often intertwined with flowers, Maile is usually given for graduations, weddings, and anniversaries.
• Feathers: In ancient Hawaii, feather lei were symbols of royalty and high ranking chiefs. The brilliantly colored feathers came from native Hawaiian birds. Due to their rarity and the intensive labor involved, feather lei are considered the most valuable and prestigious lei. Today, the creation and use of native bird feathers is highly regulated to protect endangered species.

Lei Making Techniques: A Hands-On Guide

Lei making involves several different techniques, each offering unique aesthetics and levels of difficulty. Here are some of the most common methods:

Kui (Stringing)

The kui method is the most common and simplest technique for making floral lei. It involves stringing flowers together using a needle and thread.

Materials:

• Fresh flowers (plumeria, orchid, etc.)
• Lei needle (a long, sturdy needle with a large eye)
• Lei string (strong thread or fiber)
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Prepare your flowers by removing excess leaves and stems.
2. Thread the lei needle with the lei string and tie a knot at one end.
3. Pierce the center of the first flower with the needle and slide it down the string.
4. Repeat the process, adding more flowers until the lei reaches the desired length.
5. Tie the ends of the string together securely, creating a circular lei.
6. Trim any excess string.

Tips:

• Use a thimble to protect your finger when pushing the needle through the flowers.
• Keep the flowers moist by spritzing them with water as you work.
• Alternate flower colors or sizes for a more visually appealing lei.

Cost & Where to Purchase Materials: Lei needles and string can be purchased at most craft stores or online retailers for a few dollars. Flowers can be purchased at local flower shops, farmers’ markets, or even grown in your own garden.

Haku (Braiding or Weaving)

The haku method involves braiding or weaving materials onto a base, creating a fuller, more elaborate lei. This technique is often used for head lei (lei po’o) or wristlets (kupe’e).

Materials:

• Fresh flowers, leaves, ferns
• Raffia or ti leaves (for the base)
• Lei needle and string (optional)
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Prepare the base by braiding or weaving raffia or ti leaves to create a sturdy foundation.
2. Attach flowers, leaves, and ferns to the base using the braiding or weaving technique. You can use a lei needle and string to secure the materials in place.
3. Continue adding materials until the lei reaches the desired length and fullness.
4. Secure the ends of the lei by tying them together or using ribbon.

Tips:

• Soak the raffia or ti leaves in water before braiding to make them more pliable.
• Use a variety of textures and colors to create a visually appealing lei.
• Ensure secure placement by using small drops of floral glue to the base before braiding.

Cost & Where to Purchase Materials: Raffia and ti leaves can be found at most craft stores or nurseries. The cost will vary depending on the quality and quantity you purchase.

Hili (Braid)

Hili lei are made by wrapping materials around a central cord, creating a spiraling effect. This technique is often used for lei made from vines, seeds, or twisted fibers.

Materials:

• Vines, seeds, or other flexible materials
• Cord or string
• Glue gun

Steps:

1. Prepare the core by cutting the cord to the desired length of the lei, and tie off an end.
2. Carefully wrap materials by adhering them with a small amount of hot glue as you go.

Tips:

• Tighten the wrap as you go, to create a snug lei and limit the showing of the cord.
• Be careful to not burn yourself with the hot glue gun.

Cost & Where to Purchase Materials: Cord or string can be found at most craft stores. The cost will vary depending on the quality and quantity you purchase.

Wili (Twisting)

The wili method involves twisting materials together to create a lei. This technique is often used for lei made from ferns, leaves, or vines.

Materials:

• Ferns, leaves, vines
• String or raffia
• Scissors

Steps:

1. Gather your ferns, leaves, or vines and trim them to the desired length.
2. Bundle the materials together and secure one end with string or raffia.
3. Begin twisting the materials together, creating a spiraling effect.
4. Continue twisting until the lei reaches the desired length.
5. Secure the other end with string or raffia and tie the ends together to form a circular lei.

Tips:

• Keep the materials moist while twisting to prevent them from breaking.
• Add flowers or other accents to the lei for added visual interest.

Cost & Where to Purchase Materials: String and raffia can be found at most craft stores for a reasonable price. Ferns, leaves, and vines can often be found in backyard gardens or local nurseries.

Lei Etiquette: Giving and Receiving with Aloha

Giving and receiving a lei is a meaningful exchange that should be approached with respect and understanding. Here are a few guidelines to follow:

• Presenting a Lei: When giving a lei, gently place it around the recipient’s neck, offering a warm smile and words of aloha. Avoid tossing the lei or placing it haphazardly.
• Receiving a Lei: Accept the lei with gratitude and appreciation. Allow the giver to place it around your neck. Avoid removing the lei in the presence of the giver, as this can be interpreted as disrespectful.
• Wearing a Lei: Wear the lei gracefully, allowing it to drape naturally around your neck and shoulders. Avoid fidgeting with the lei or constantly adjusting it.
• Proper Disposal: When disposing of a lei, do so with respect. Ideally, return the lei to the earth by burying it or returning it to the ocean. If that’s not possible, discard it respectfully.

Where to Learn Lei Making in Hawaii

If you’re eager to delve deeper into lei making, consider taking a workshop or class from one of the many talented lei makers in Hawaii. Here are a few options:

• Lei making workshops at local community centers: Many community centers offer affordable lei making workshops for residents and visitors alike. These classes are a great way to learn the basics of lei making and connect with the local community. Check the city and county of Honolulu website for such options in Oahu. Other counties such as Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii may also provide classes and events.
• Lei making classes at cultural centers: Cultural centers, such as the Polynesian Cultural Center, offer immersive lei making experiences that delve into the cultural significance of lei making while teaching you the traditional techniques. Polynesian Cultural Center is located in Oahu’s North Shore. They offer day and evening admissions.
• Private lei making lessons: Several independent lei makers offer private lessons for individuals or small groups. These personalized lessons allow you to learn at your own pace and focus on specific techniques or materials. Ask local flower shops or cultural centers for recommendations.

Preserving Your Lei: Keeping the Aloha Alive

With proper care, a fresh flower lei can last for several days. Here are a few tips for preserving your lei:

• Refrigeration: Store the lei in a plastic bag in the refrigerator to slow down the wilting process. Lightly mist the lei with water before refrigerating it.
• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the lei. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and freeze it flat. When you’re ready to use the lei, thaw it slowly in the refrigerator to prevent damage.
• Drying: Some lei can be dried and preserved. Hang the lei upside down in a cool, dry place until it is completely dried. Dried lei will last for years and can be used for decoration or as a keepsake.

Cost of Lei

The cost of a lei can vary significantly depending on the type of flowers used, the lei’s complexity, and the location where you purchase it. Simple plumeria lei can cost as little as $5-$10, while elaborate orchid or shell lei can cost upwards of $50 or more. Remember that purchasing directly from lei stands or farmer’s markets often provides better value than buying from tourist shops.

To get an idea of average costs, you can visit local flower shops or lei stands. Online platforms like Etsy also offer a wide range of handmade lei at varying price points. Additionally, consider the time of year and flower availability. During peak tourist seasons or special events, prices may be higher due to increased demand.

DIY Lei Making: Creating Your Own Aloha at Home

Making your own lei can be a rewarding and therapeutic experience, even if you’re not in Hawaii. All you need are the right materials, a little patience, and a touch of aloha. Here’s a basic guide to getting started:

• Gather your materials: Choose fresh flowers or other natural materials that are available in your area. You can also order lei making supplies online.
• Prepare your workspace: Set up a comfortable and well-lit workspace where you can spread out your materials.
• Follow the instructions: Choose a lei making technique that suits your skill level and follow the steps carefully.
• Embrace the process: Lei making is about more than just creating a beautiful object; it’s about connecting with nature and expressing your aloha. Relax, enjoy the process, and let your creativity flow.

Lei Making and Sustainability

With growing awareness of environmental concerns, sustainable practices in lei making are becoming increasingly important. Consider these tips for eco-friendly lei creation:

Source Local and Seasonal Materials: Whenever possible, use flowers and other materials that are grown locally. This reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping and supports local farmers.
Avoid Non-Biodegradable Materials: Steer clear of using plastic, artificial flowers, or non-biodegradable twine. Opt for natural fibers like cotton, hemp, or raffia, which break down naturally in the environment.
Compost Floral Waste: After the lei has served its purpose, compost the flowers and other organic materials instead of throwing them away. This returns valuable nutrients back to the soil.
Support Sustainable Suppliers: Buying materials from suppliers committed to eco-friendly practices helps promote responsible sourcing and sustainable agriculture. Look for those who use organic farming methods and environmentally friendly packaging.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Apply the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle to your lei making process. Minimize waste by using only what you need, repurpose old lei components, and recycle packaging materials.
Consider Dried Flowers: Instead of fresh flowers, consider making lei from dried flowers. These can last much longer and reduce the need to frequently replace flowers. Dried flower lei are also a great sustainable alternative as they can be stored for years.

By adopting sustainable practices, we can ensure that the art of lei making remains a beautiful and environmentally responsible tradition for generations to come.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about lei making and Hawaiian lei etiquette:

What is the proper way to give a lei?

The proper way to give a lei is to gently place it around the recipient’s neck while offering a warm smile and words of aloha. Avoid tossing the lei or placing it haphazardly.

Is it disrespectful to refuse a lei?

Yes, it is considered disrespectful to refuse a lei. Accepting a lei is a sign of gratitude and appreciation.

Is it okay to remove a lei in front of the person who gave it to me?

It is generally considered impolite to remove a lei in the presence of the giver, as this can be interpreted as disrespectful.

How long will a fresh flower lei last?

With proper care, a fresh flower lei can last for several days. Store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator and lightly mist it with water.

Can I make a lei from any type of flower?

Yes, you can make a lei from any type of flower, but some flowers are more durable and easier to work with than others. Plumeria, orchids, and pikake are popular choices.

What is a lei po’o?

A lei po’o is a head lei, traditionally worn on the head as a garland or crown.

What is the significance of a maile lei?

Maile lei are traditionally used for important occasions, such as weddings, graduations, and anniversaries. The maile leaf symbolizes respect, honor, and good fortune.

Are there any restrictions on carrying lei on airplanes?

While it’s generally permissible to carry lei on airplanes, regulations can vary by airline and destination, especially for international flights. Always check with your airline before traveling with lei to ensure compliance with any specific rules regarding agricultural products and plant materials. Most airlines allow lei within the U.S. and some international locations, as long as they are for personal use and not for commercial purposes.

References

• Buck, P. H. (1957). Arts and Crafts of Hawaii. Bernice P. Bishop Museum Special Publication 45.
• Emerson, N. B. (1909). Unwritten Literature of Hawaii. The Sacred Songs of the Hula.
• Kanahele, G. S. (1986). Ku Kanaka: Stand Tall. University of Hawaii Press.
• Lee, Dorothy Sara. (2005). All I Want Is Everything: Aloha Spirit, Hawaiian Style. Mutual Publishing.

Ready to experience the art of lei making firsthand? Whether you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or looking to bring a touch of aloha into your home, take the time to learn this beautiful tradition. Attend a workshop, gather your materials, and create your own piece of Hawaiian paradise. By embracing the spirit of lei making, you’re not just creating a beautiful adornment; you’re sharing a piece of your heart and spreading the aloha spirit.