How to Make Flower Money Lei: A Detailed Guide
Flower money lei, also known as leis, is a traditional Hawaiian decoration made from flowers. It is often used as a symbol of hospitality and friendship. Whether you’re planning a Hawaiian-themed party or simply want to learn a new craft, making your own flower money lei can be a fun and rewarding experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of creating a beautiful flower money lei.
Choosing the Right Flowers
The first step in making a flower money lei is selecting the right flowers. The most popular flowers for leis include plumeria, orchids, ti leaves, and hibiscus. These flowers are not only beautiful but also have cultural significance in Hawaii. When choosing flowers, consider the following:
-
Color: Choose flowers that complement each other and the occasion.
-
Availability: Make sure the flowers you choose are in season and readily available.
-
Size: Select flowers of varying sizes to create a visually appealing lei.
Here’s a table of popular flowers for leis and their cultural meanings:
| Flower | Cultural Meaning |
|---|---|
| Plumeria | Love, beauty, and peace |
| Orchid | Love, beauty, and strength |
| Ti Leaves | Good luck, protection, and strength |
| Hibiscus | Love, beauty, and joy |
Preparing the Flowers
Once you’ve selected your flowers, it’s time to prepare them for the lei-making process. Here’s what you need to do:
-
Remove any leaves or stems that are brown or wilted.
-
Trim the stems to a uniform length.
-
Soak the flowers in water for a few hours to ensure they stay fresh.
Creating the Lei
Now that your flowers are prepared, it’s time to start creating your lei. Follow these steps:
-
Start with a long piece of string or wire. The length will depend on the size of the lei you want to create.
-
Begin by attaching the first flower to the string or wire. You can use a small piece of floral tape or a twist tie to secure it.
-
Continue adding flowers to the string or wire, spacing them evenly. You can alternate between different types of flowers to create a visually appealing pattern.
-
Once you’ve added all the flowers, tie the ends of the string or wire together to form a loop.
-
Trim any excess string or wire to ensure a clean finish.
Customizing Your Lei
Now that you have a basic flower money lei, you can customize it to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas:
-
Add beads or charms to the lei for a unique touch.
-
Use a different type of string or wire for a different look.
-
Make a double-layered lei by adding another row of flowers on top of the first row.
Caring for Your Lei
Once your lei is complete, it’s important to care for it properly to ensure it stays fresh and beautiful. Here are some tips:
-
Keep the lei in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
-
Change the water in the vase or container every few days.
-
Remove any wilted flowers as needed.
By following these steps, you can create a beautiful flower money lei that will be the perfect addition to any occasion. Happy lei-making!