How to Make Graduation Leis. Highlight Simplicity and Creativity

Graduation leis are a symbolic and colorful way to celebrate the achievements of graduates. Originating from Hawaiian tradition, these garlands are not only decorative but also represent love, respect, and the transition to a new chapter in life. They can be crafted from a variety of materials, including fresh flowers, yarn, money, or candy, to personalize the gift for the graduate.

Making a graduation lei allows for creativity and can be a fun activity that leads to a unique and memorable present. Whether opting for a traditional floral lei or a modern variation, the process involves careful selection of materials, thoughtful assembly, and often, the incorporation of the graduate’s school colors or interests.

There are various methods available to suit different preferences and skill levels. The most popular graduation lei is a flower lei. Nothing can replace real flowers because of their cultural significance, vibrant beauty, and symbolic representation of achievement. The candy lei is also a popular choice for those looking to provide a sweet treat, with clear instructions on how to make a graduation lei out of candy. For those interested in a monetary gift, tutorials on how to create graduation money leis are accessible as well, offering a practical and inventive way to gift graduates.

Contents

1. How to make flower lei

• Materials Needed for Making a Flower Lei
• Steps to Make a Flower Lei

2. Basic Ribbon Lei Making

• Materials Needed
• Simple 3-Step Guide to Make a Ribbon Lei in braided

3. Money Lei Construction

• Materials Needed for Making Money Lei
• Folding Bills
• Attaching Money to Ribbon

4. Candy Lei Crafting

• Materials Needed
• Selecting Candy
• Wrapping Techniques

5. Graduation Lei Styles

• Single Strand Leis
• Double Strand Leis
• Braided Leis
• Kukui Nut Leis

6. Personalizing Your Lei

• Adding School Colors
• Incorporating Graduation Year
• Embellishing with Symbols

7. Finishing Touches

• Securing the Ends
• Adding Tassels or Bows

8. Presentation Tips

• Packaging Ideas
• Gifting Etiquette

9. Care and Storage

• For Fresh Flower Leis
• For Money and Ribbon Leis
• General Guidelines

Flower leis symbolize celebration and natural beauty. Crafting your own adds a personal touch to special occasions. Here’s a simple guide to creating a vibrant flower lei.

Fresh Flowers

• Select vibrant and fresh blooms like orchids, carnations, or plumeria.
• Cut flowers, leaving a bit of stem for threading.

String or Ribbon

• Choose a sturdy string or ribbon for threading the flowers. Ensure it complements the colors of the blooms.

Scissors

• Have a pair of sharp scissors for clean cuts while preparing materials.

Optional Embellishments

• Greenery, beads, or small decorations for personalizing the lei.

Step 1: Gather Fresh Blooms

Begin by selecting an assortment of fresh flowers. Popular choices include orchids, carnations, or plumeria. Cut them, leaving a bit of stem for threading.

Step 2: Prepare Materials

Get a sturdy string or ribbon for threading the flowers. Ensure you have a pair of sharp scissors for clean cuts.

Step 3: Thread the Flowers

Carefully thread each flower onto the string, alternating colors to create an appealing pattern. Continue until the lei reaches your desired length.

Step 4: Secure and Knot

Once you’ve completed the threading, secure the ends with a tight knot. Trim any excess string or ribbon for a polished finish.

Ribbon lei, a vibrant and simple craft. Braid three colorful ribbons, secure tightly, and create a thoughtful handmade gift for celebrations.

Ribbons: Choose three different colors of ribbons. Each ribbon should be about 2 yards long, depending on the desired length of the lei.

Scissors: Sharp scissors are essential for clean cuts.

Tape or Clip: A small piece of tape or a clip to secure the ribbons while braiding.

Select and Prepare Ribbons

• Choose three different-colored ribbons, each approximately 2 yards long.
• Align the ribbon ends evenly and secure them together with tape or a clip.

Start Braiding

• Hold the taped end securely.
• Cross the right ribbon over the middle, followed by the left over the new middle.
• Repeat, alternating right and left ribbons, creating a braided pattern.

Finish and Secure

• Continue braiding until the lei reaches the desired length.
• Knot the end tightly to secure the braid.

Enjoy your beautifully crafted ribbon lei!

Creating a graduation money lei involves a meticulous process of folding bills and attaching them securely to a ribbon or a string. This traditional gift not only offers monetary value but also carries symbolism and beauty.

Currency Bills

• Use clean and crisp bills of the desired denomination.

Ribbon

• Select a ribbon that complements the color scheme or theme of the lei.

Clear Tape or Staples

• For securing the folded bills onto the ribbon.

Beads or Spacers

• Optional decorative elements for spacing bills and adding aesthetic balance.

Scissors

• A pair of scissors for cutting the ribbon and bills to the desired lengths.

Optional Embellishments

• If desired, you can add additional decorations like small charms or beads to enhance the lei’s appeal.

• Accordion Fold: Each bill should be folded back and forth in an accordion style to create a compact and textured aesthetic. The accordion fold is achieved by making small, uniform pleats along the length of the bill.
• Fan Fold: After the accordion folding is complete, the bill is to be folded in half to make a fan shape. This method ensures that the bills will display well on the lei and add to its decorative appeal.

• Securing Bills: To secure the folded bills to the ribbon, one can use clear tape or staples, placing them at the base to maintain the fan shape. Each bill must be attached firmly to ensure they do not slip or fall off the lei.
• Spacing: Bills should be spaced evenly along the length of the ribbon, often with beads or other spacers, to provide aesthetic balance and to showcase each individual bill. The spacing technique can vary depending on personal preference or the amount of money one wishes to include in the lei.

Crafting a candy lei for graduation is a creative and thoughtful way to celebrate this milestone. The process involves selecting appropriate candies and employing certain wrapping techniques to assemble a colorful and festive garland.

To begin crafting a graduation lei, one first needs to assemble a variety of supplies. It’s important to consider the durability and color scheme of the materials to ensure that the lei is both attractive and long-lasting. Here’s a curated list of essential items:

• Cellophane or Plastic Wrap: Typically, a 4-foot length is sufficient, with a width of about 6 inches to hold the items securely. This will form the base to roll your items in and create the tube-like structure of the lei.
• Candies or Small Gifts: Choose candies that can withstand a bit of handling and won’t melt easily. Small chocolate bars, hard candies, or other novelty items are excellent options.
• Ribbon: Curling ribbon works well for tying between the items to secure them in place. You’ll need multiple 6-8 inch pieces.
• Scissors and Tape: Sharp scissors for cutting the wrap and ribbon, and clear tape or a stapler to seal the cellophane or plastic wrap.
• Optional Decorations: Embellishments such as small flowers, beads, or stickers can add a personal touch to the lei.

Here’s how to layout these materials:

Item	Quantity	Description
Cellophane/Plastic Wrap	4-foot length	6 inches wide
Candies/Small Gifts	As desired	Varieties that handle room temperature well
Curling Ribbon	Several 6-8 inch pieces	Color-coordinated with the school’s colors
Scissors	1 pair	Must be sharp for clean cuts
Tape/Stapler	Sufficient quantity	To secure the ends of the wrap
Optional Decorations	As desired	Personalize with flowers, beads, or stickers

Having all these materials on hand before starting the project will streamline the process and ensure the final graduation lei is both attractive and meaningful.

When choosing candies for a lei, one should opt for an assortment that complements the graduate’s preferences and the visual appeal of the final product. It’s advisable to mix candies of different colors, shapes, and sizes for variety. Individually wrapped sweets are often preferred as they ensure hygiene and ease of assembly. Here’s a basic list to consider:

• Chocolates: Typically in small, individual wrappers for durability and taste.
• Hard Candies: Available in vibrant colors for a pop of excitement.
• Chewy Candies: To add a textural contrast to the lei.

The wrapping process is crucial for creating a stunning and secure candy lei. Traditionally, plastic wrap is used due to its clarity and strength. However, cellophane can be a more colorful alternative. The steps are generally simple:

1. Cut Wrapping Material: Measure and cut a length of plastic wrap or cellophane approximately 36 to 48 inches long to accommodate a full loop around the neck comfortably.
2. Place Candies: Lay out the cutting material flat and place candies at regular intervals along the center.
3. Roll and Tie: After the candies are placed, roll the wrapper into a tube and secure each section between the candies with ribbons or twist ties to keep them in position.

These candy lei-making techniques can vary in complexity, but the basic principles remain consistent. Following these guidelines will help anyone create an attractive and personalized gift for a graduate’s special day.

Graduation leis can significantly vary in style, each bringing a unique touch of symbolism and tradition to the celebration. They range from simple, single-strand leis to more complex braided designs, showcasing the wearer’s personal style or the significance of the occasion.

Single strand leis are a classic choice for graduations, symbolizing the completion of a journey. They consist of flowers, paper, or ribbon systematically threaded or tied in a sequence to create a simple yet elegant garland. This style is often chosen for its delicate beauty and understated elegance.

Double strand leis exemplify a fuller, more intricate appearance compared to their single-stranded counterparts. By intertwining two strands, they offer a greater visual impact and can signify the doubling of joy and accomplishment on graduation day.

Braided leis are a testament to craftsmanship, involving strands of material woven together to form a strong and cohesive lei. The braiding can incorporate multiple colors or textures, and often embodies the intertwining of different experiences and lessons learned throughout one’s educational journey.

Kukui nut leis bring a sense of heritage and endurance, traditionally made from the polished nuts of the kukui tree. They stand as a symbol of enlightenment and are typically reserved for males, but they have grown in popularity and significance among all graduates.

Creating a graduation lei that reflects the graduate’s individuality can make the gift significantly more meaningful. A personalized lei not only honors their achievement but also celebrates their unique journey.

One can tailor a graduation lei to the graduate by weaving in ribbons or flowers that match the school’s colors. Selecting blossoms like carnations or dyed orchids in the appropriate hues can achieve a look that is not only vibrant but also symbolic of the graduate’s alma mater.

It is also impactful to include the graduation year in the design of the lei. This can be done by integrating numbers made from durable materials such as wooden beads or felt cutouts, strategically placed throughout the lei to commemorate the momentous year of graduation.

Lastly, one might embellish the lei with symbols that resonate with the graduate. These can range from small charms representing their field of study to a miniature diploma or cap. Each added symbol serves to tell the graduate’s story and celebrate their personal achievements.

Once the lei itself has been crafted, final embellishments can elevate its appearance, adding a polished look that makes the lei stand out. Paying attention to these small details ensures the graduation lei is as special as the occasion it celebrates.

To ensure the lei maintains its shape and integrity, securely fastening the ends is crucial. One can tie the ends together with a strong knot or stitch them with a needle and thread. Using clear fishing line or a color-coordinated ribbon will keep the focus on the lei itself.

For a decorative flair, tassels or bows can be attached to the lei. This should be done with care, selecting colors that complement the lei. They can be affixed with a small knot or a discreet dab of glue. Whether one opts for the traditional look of ribbon bows or the more modern appeal of yarn tassels, these accents can add personality and charm to the final product.

When crafting graduation leis, the presentation can be just as meaningful as the lei itself. These tips will ensure that the lei is displayed beautifully and given with respect to tradition and sentiment.

A thoughtful packaging can amplify the visual appeal and protect the lei. Individuals might consider clear plastic wrap to showcase the lei while keeping it pristine. Adding a bow or ribbon in the graduate’s school colors not only secures the packaging but also adds a personalized touch. For a more sustainable option, fabric bags or reusable boxes that align with the graduate’s school colors or interests can be a memorable choice.

Gifting a graduation lei should be done with care. It’s considered respectful to present the lei with both hands and gently place it around the graduate’s neck, avoiding mussing their attire. If giving a money lei, such as the one described in a step-by-step guide, be discreet and ensure the amount is not overtly displayed. Timing is key; presenting the lei before or after the graduation ceremony allows for a personal moment, making the gesture more intimate and memorable.

When one has crafted a graduation lei, ensuring its freshness and appearance for the ceremony is paramount. Proper care and storage are vital to maintain the lei’s aesthetic appeal.

• Before Storing: Mist the lei lightly with water.
• Storage Method: Place it in a plastic bag and gently expel excess air before sealing it.
• Temperature: Refrigerate at a moderate temperature, typically between 40-45 degrees Fahrenheit.

Recommended Storage Duration: One should store the lei in the refrigerator for no more than a day to ensure optimal freshness.

• Before Storing: Ensure all materials are dry to prevent any mildew or damage.
• Storage Method: Lay flat or carefully hang in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Protection: Cover with a lightweight, breathable cloth to protect from dust.

Additional Tip: For ribbon leis, one may lightly iron them on a low setting to remove any creases before the ceremony.

• Avoid Compression: Keep the lei free from being squished to maintain its shape.
• Humidity Management: Use silica gel packets if storing in areas with high humidity to absorb excess moisture.

By adhering to these guidelines, one can ensure that their graduation lei remains a splendid commemorative piece for the celebratory occasion.