Reduce, Reuse, Recycle Lei
Lei are necklaces or garlands intended to be worn on the body or hung in significant ways. Many types of lei are made in Hawaiʻi, and across the Pacific, garlands and necklaces are seen in everyday life and on special occasions. Some of the more common types of lei made today are haku, kui, and wili or wiliwili. Lei haku are garlands made by braiding multiple materials together; lei kui are made by piercing and stringing together parts of the necklace; and lei wili are made by twisting strands and materials together.
When making lei, good intentions and attention to the work is always important. Some lei makers say that what is felt during the making of a lei will be passed on to the wearer.
Want to see how lei can be made? Here are some ideas for using supplies you can find around the house!
SUPPLIES YOU’LL NEED
STRAWS – cut into 1-inch pieces
PAPER – cut into fun shapes
BOTTLE CAPS – depending on preference, they can be the same size or vary in size
(you will need to drill holes in them beforehand if you choose this material)
YARN OR STRING – Measure a good size to wear and leave an inch on both ends to use for tying
TOOTHPICK OR PAPER CLIP
(if using a toothpick, you’ll need some glue to attach the yarn to the end of the toothpick)
If using a paper clip, you’ll need to attach the string by tying a small knot)
AN ADULT TO HELP IF YOU NEED
