Hawaiian leis are a symbol of welcome, and a fun way to say aloha. Making your own leis at home is both fun and financially-wise when planning a festive summer or Hawaiian-themed party or wedding, or giving as a cool gift. This is an easy task for adults and children alike.
Decide on your materialsYou can use paper flowers, cloth cut-outs, plastic craft flowers or even real flowers, among other things to create your leis. Whatever material you decide to use, it is a good idea to prepare the flowers before you start. For paper flowers, it is helpful to cut several sheets at the same time, reducing the amount of cutting time. For silk or plastic craft flowers, prepare them in advance by stripping away any unnecessary connectors and vines. Purchase neon or colorful straws, and cut them in thirds. A hole-punch is useful for materials that do not already have a hole in the center. If you are making your leis with real flowers, you need a needle and thread to sew them together. One adult lei takes about 50 flowers.
Construct a couple of leis made out of dollar bills for a unique wedding or graduation gift. Design your layoutBefore you begin, decide exactly how you want the flowers to go on the strings. Use a variation of sizes and colors to create interest. Once you have all of your materials ready and your design in mind, begin stringing the flowers and straws. Alternate varying quantities of flowers for each group for a more realistic look but always follow a pattern so it looks uniform and intentional. Do not forget to leave room at each end of the string to tie the lei together.
With a little creativity, you can create dozens of styles to suit just about any occasion. Making leis is a fun project for people of all ages, and is a creative way to open your next party.
Leis are popular at Hawaiian Luaus.
leis
A lei is made from Hawaiian flowers.
One can purchase Hawaiian garlands or better known as a leis online at several websites including, Amazon and Ebay and specialist sites such as Hawaiian Flower Lei.
The Oriental Trading Company, located in Omaha, Nebraska is one of the largest wholesale providers of toys, party favors, and supplies. They have a wide selection of Hawaiian leis available for purchase.
One can order a Hawaiian Lei from Hawaii by going to the official website of Hawaiian Flower Lei and proceeding to order from their wide variety of leis.
Yes, Hawaiian flowers can be purchased in the United States. Many floral shops and online retailers offer a variety of Hawaiian flowers, such as orchids, plumeria, and anthuriums, that are grown in Hawaii and shipped to the mainland.
A traditional Hawaiian wedding includes flower leis as favors for guests as well as the bride and groom. A lei is symbol of love and respect.
Yes. They can wear leis on their heads and around their necks while standing under the chuppah.
Yes. I once saw a picture of one, where the Jewish couple and even the rabbi wore leis with their outfits!
Cynjo Creations Inc. creates handcrafted heirloom leis. They create both Hawaiian nut and shell leis as well as leis made from yarn. These custom leis last forever and can be made in just about any color or combination of colors imaginable. Cynjo Creations can create them for any event, Holiday or occasion. They will ship anywhere. You can contact them at cynjocreations.com and visit their website as well.
It is customary in Hawaii that Hula girls will offer disembarking passengers leis. This is a way of welcoming you to the island. Leis are also given for all special occasions ranging from birthdays to deaths.