How to Make Flower Leis with Money
Flower leis are a beautiful and traditional way to celebrate special occasions, from weddings to Hawaiian luaus. They are not only a symbol of love and respect but also a stunning accessory that can elevate any outfit. If you’re looking to create your own flower leis on a budget, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of making flower leis with money in mind, ensuring you get the most out of your floral investment.
Choosing the Right Flowers
When it comes to making flower leis, the type of flowers you choose can significantly impact the final cost. Here are some budget-friendly flower options that are both beautiful and cost-effective:
| Flower | Cost | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Lavender | $5 – $10 | Year-round |
| Rosemary | $5 – $10 | Year-round |
| Sunflowers | $5 – $10 | Seasonal |
| Baby’s Breath | $3 – $5 | Year-round |
| Bright Orange Gerberas | $5 – $10 | Seasonal |
Keep in mind that the cost of flowers can vary depending on the season, location, and the specific variety you choose. Shopping at local farmers’ markets or bulk flower suppliers can help you save money on your floral purchases.
Materials Needed
Before you start making your flower leis, gather the following materials:
- Flowers (as mentioned above)
- Floral wire
- Scissors
- Floral tape
- Lei cord or ribbon
- Optional: decorative beads, feathers, or other embellishments
Floral wire is essential for holding the flowers together and keeping the lei in shape. You can find it at most craft stores or online. If you’re on a tight budget, you can also use sturdy wire from a hardware store, but be prepared to wrap it with floral tape to prevent it from being too noticeable.
The Process
Now that you have your materials, it’s time to start making your flower leis. Follow these steps to create beautiful, budget-friendly leis:
- Prepare the Flowers: Trim the stems of your flowers to a uniform length, typically around 6-8 inches. This will help ensure that your lei is evenly distributed.
- Attach Flowers to Wire: Using floral tape, wrap the wire around the base of each flower stem, securing it in place. Continue adding flowers to the wire, spacing them evenly apart.
- Shape the Lei: Once you’ve added all the flowers, gently bend the wire into the desired shape. You can create a straight lei, a circular lei, or even a spiral lei.
- Secure the End: Wrap the end of the wire with floral tape to prevent the flowers from falling off.
- Attach the Lei Cord: Thread the lei cord or ribbon through the loop at the end of the wire. Tie a knot to secure the cord in place.
- Optional Embellishments: If you want to add a touch of flair to your lei, consider adding decorative beads, feathers, or other embellishments. Simply attach them to the lei cord using floral tape or a needle and thread.
Remember that practice makes perfect. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flower combinations and lei shapes to find what works best for you.
Caring for Your Lei
Once you’ve created your flower leis, it’s important to take care of them to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are some tips for
