How to Make Candy and Money Leis for Graduation
Graduation season is a time of celebration, and what better way to mark the occasion than with personalized candy and money leis? These leis are not only a beautiful accessory but also a thoughtful gift that your graduates will cherish. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of creating stunning candy and money leis for your graduation event.
Materials Needed
Before you start, gather all the necessary materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
| Material | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Lei Leaves | 1 pack (enough to cover the length of the lei) |
| Candy | Assorted candies of your choice (enough to fill the lei) |
| Money | Small bills or coins (enough to fill the lei) |
| Thread | 1 spool (preferably a strong, durable thread) |
| Needle | 1 large-eyed needle |
| Scissors | 1 pair of sharp scissors |
| Glue | 1 bottle of strong craft glue |
| Plastic Bag | 1 large plastic bag (to keep the candy and money fresh) |
Creating the Lei Base
Start by creating the base of your lei. Lay out the lei leaves on a flat surface and arrange them in a desired pattern. You can create a simple pattern or a more intricate design, depending on your preference. Once you’re satisfied with the pattern, secure the leaves together using the thread. Thread the needle and tie a knot at the end. Begin weaving the thread through the leaves, making sure to pull it tight to create a sturdy base.
Adding Candy
Now it’s time to add the candy to your lei. Take a handful of candy and place it in the plastic bag. This will help keep the candy fresh and prevent it from sticking to the leaves. Thread the needle with the thread and insert it through the center of a candy. Pull the thread tight to secure the candy in place. Repeat this process with the remaining candies, spacing them evenly along the lei base.
Adding Money
Next, add the money to your lei. Similar to the candy, place the money in the plastic bag to keep it clean. Thread the needle with the thread and insert it through the center of a bill or coin. Pull the thread tight to secure the money in place. Continue adding money to the lei, spacing it evenly along the candy.
Finishing Touches
Once you’ve added all the candy and money, it’s time to finish your lei. Trim any excess thread and leaves, ensuring that the lei is neat and tidy. Apply a small amount of craft glue to the ends of the lei leaves to prevent them from unraveling. Allow the glue to dry completely before wearing or presenting the lei.
Customizing Your Lei
Personalize your lei by adding additional decorations, such as ribbons, flowers, or charms. You can also choose to use different types of candy and money to create a unique and eye-catching lei. Get creative and let your imagination run wild!
Care Instructions
After your graduation event, store your lei in a cool, dry place to preserve its beauty. If the lei becomes dusty or dirty, gently wipe it with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing the lei to direct sunlight or moisture, as this can cause the leaves to fade or the candy to melt.
Creating candy and money leis for graduation is a fun and rewarding activity that you can enjoy with friends and family. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create stunning, personalized leis that your graduates will cherish for years to come.
