Lei Kit Instructions
How to Make a Lei with Your Lei Kit
Start with Aloha: Before beginning, center yourself with aloha. Think of the person you are making the lei for, and fill your heart with good wishes and intentions.
Prepare the Thread: Thread the lei needle with the lei thread, pulling through about half the length of the thread. Match the two tails together at the end. Tie a knot securely two to three times, leaving a tail of about 6-8 inches. This knot will help prevent the blooms from slipping off.
Cut the blooms:
For carnations, cut the stems off the carnation.
For orchids, you should receive it already cut. You may wish to cut the stems off or leave them on.
Organize the pattern of your blooms: Organize and create the pattern of your blooms. This is your chance to see what you want your lei to look like.
String the Blooms:
For carnations, pierce the carnation with the needle at the bottom of the bloom where you cut stem continuing through the middle of the bloom. Push it down the string to the knot you tied.
For orchids, pierce the orchid with the needle through the face of bloom through the center of it’s back (rounded, pointed back). Push it down the string to the know you tied.
Continue Stringing: Continue adding blooms until you reach the desired length of the lei.
Tie Off the Lei: After stringing the blooms, carefully cut the string from the needle and place safely to the side. Tie the two ends of the thread together securely, again with two to three knots. Cut off any extra lei thread to conceal the mechanics of the lei and make a neat finish.
Add Ribbon: Take a length of ribbon and tie it over the knot. You can tie a simple bow or create a more elaborate ribbon decoration.
Hydrate your lei: Spritz your lei with cool to room temperature water, place in a plastic bag, and store in the refrigerator.
Needle or tools care: Be sure to rinse your needle and tools (e.g. scissors) with warm water and soap to prevent bacteria growth. Dry thoroughly to prevent rusting.
Lei Care
Spritz your lei with water and place in a plastic bag. Store in the refrigerator until time to go. You may want to pat it lightly with a paper towel to dry it off before presenting the lei to the recipient.You can store the lei for 2-3 days in the refrigerator.
Lei Etiquette and Presentation
Place the lei over their head and around the neck.
As you present the lei, wish the recipient aloha.
Hug the recipient after giving them the lei.
Place the bow of the lei over the heart of the recipient as a gesture of love and respect.
