How to Make a Paper Lei

Last Updated: July 2, 2020

To a kid, making a paper lei is similar to the real flower lei. With a little adult supervision to start things off, the imagination and creatively of the leis can flow from the kids. This project is great for kids ages 4 and up.

Steps

1
Cut plastic party straws into 1 inch (2.5 cm) lengths.
2
Create a basic flower design template on paper. Cut the piece out and make paper flowers out of construction paper, using different colors. Punch holes in the middle of each flower.

Advertisement
3
Poke string through the hole of the flower, then thread it through a straw. The straws will create dividers, so keep on alternating the flowers and straws until you get a good length. Cut off the remaining string and tie both ends together
4
Adore your own lei creation!
5
Finished.

Community Q&A

Question

The history of a lei

Community Answer

Leis were worn by Polynesians and a few Asian peoples. They were usually used by Native Hawaiians to designate royalty, almost like a crown is used today by kings/queens.
Question

How many straws do I need to cut?

Community Answer

That depends on how long you want your lei to be. As you are cutting the straws, line them up to get an idea of how long your lei will be.

Warnings

Be careful when using scissors, as always!

⧼thumbs_response⧽
Helpful 8 Not Helpful 0

Things You'll Need

Colorful construction paper,

Non-flexible party straws,

30 to 40 inches of string or yarn per child,

Scissors,

Pencil or pen, and

Other accessories that the kids can use.