How to make a maile lei

A traditional Hawaiian maile lei! It's a beautiful and fragrant garland made from the leaves of the maile plant (Acalypha wilkesiana). Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make a maile lei:

Materials needed:

• Fresh maile leaves (you can purchase them at a Hawaiian market or grow your own)
• A wire or string base (e.g., copper wire, floral wire, or a piece of twine)
• Scissors
• Floral tape (optional)
• A lei needle (optional)

Preparing the maile leaves:

1. Choose fresh, healthy maile leaves with no signs of damage or discoloration.
2. Rinse the leaves with water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Pat the leaves dry with a clean cloth to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Creating the lei:

1. Cut a length of wire or string base, depending on the size of lei you want to make. For a traditional Hawaiian maile lei, you'll want a length of about 2-3 feet (60-90 cm).
2. Begin by threading a maile leaf onto the wire or string base, leaving a small portion of the leaf exposed at the end.
3. Wrap the wire or string around the stem of the leaf, securing it in place. Make sure the leaf is snug against the wire or string.
4. Continue threading and wrapping the maile leaves, overlapping each leaf slightly as you go. This will help create a cohesive and fragrant garland.
5. As you work, gently shape the lei into a circular or oval shape, depending on your preference.
6. To add a finishing touch, you can wrap the ends of the lei with floral tape or a small piece of wire to secure the leaves in place.

Tips and variations:

• Use a lei needle to thread the leaves onto the wire or string base. This can be especially helpful if you're working with thicker or more delicate leaves.
• Experiment with different patterns and designs by varying the size and shape of the leaves, or by adding other materials like flowers, shells, or feathers.
• To make a more durable lei, you can use a wire base and wrap the leaves with floral tape or wire.
• Maile lei can be worn as a traditional Hawaiian garland, or used as a decorative element in floral arrangements or home decor.

Caring for your maile lei:

• To keep your maile lei fresh and fragrant, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Avoid exposing the lei to heat or moisture, as this can cause the leaves to wilt or become discolored.
• If you need to clean your maile lei, gently dust it with a soft cloth or brush to remove any dirt or debris.

With these steps and tips, you're ready to create your own beautiful maile lei!