 |
Real leis are made with plumaria blossoms or orchids. The plumaria is white flowering tree that grows nearly everywhere on the big island. The Hawaiian natives use plumaria flowers for many types of leis. To make a real lei the Hawiians use a very long (12"-18"), sharp, steel needle and heavy waxed thread, with which they can string many flowers at once.
Here is a fun activity for younger children or for those who live in areas where flowers are not readily accessible. These "pretend" ones look very much like the real thing, especially if you use white or yellow straws
Flower Leis
Materials Construction Paper cut in 2" squares (Pastel colors & white) Drinking straws cut in 1" pieces String or yarn (1 yard for each child) White glue or masking tape Hole Punch
Prepare string in advance by dipping about 1" of each end in white glue and allowing it to dry OR wrap each end with masking tape. This will give the children a firm end to hold and will make stringing the leis easier.
-
Fold each 2" square of construction
paper in fourths and cut as illustrated
to form petals.
Flowers may also be formed by
tearing the petal shapes.
-
Punch a hole in the center of each flower
-
Alternating flowers and straw pieces,
string your lei. It is easiest to start at
the center and work toward each end.
-
When the string is covered to within
3" of each end, tie the ends together in
a knot.
Leis are presented on many occasions. The gift of a lei can mean "love", "friendship", "welcome" or "goodbye". It is traditional when presenting the lei to someone else to give a kiss on the cheek.