Types of Lei: lei lāʻī

What is Lei Lāʻī?

Lei lāʻī is a traditional Hawaiian lei made from the leaves of the ti plant (Cordyline fruticosa). These lush green leaves have been used for generations in Hawaiian culture for everything from cooking to clothing, and of course, in lei making. The ti plant favors tropical environments, full sun, and well drained soil. It is considered sacred in Hawaiian culture, believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits.

The Significance of Lei Lāʻī

In Hawaiian culture, lei lāʻī represents more than mere decoration. It embodies protection, healing, and aloha (love and compassion). Hula dancers may wear ti leaf skirts and lei during their performances, and lei lāʻī are commonly presented as gifts to honor individuals or commemorate special events.

How to Make Lei Lāʻī

1. Gather Your Materials: You'll need fresh ti leaves, scissors, and a method to soften the leaves (iron, microwave, freeze, or boil). When picking ti, never use clippers to cut the stem off of the stalk. Instead, use a downward pulling motion to pull off the entire leaf and stem, this ensures the rest of the leaves still receive nutrients. Never over strip the plant.

2. Prepare the Leaves: Clean the leaves by wiping with a damp towel to remove any dirt and wipe dry with a dry towel. Using scissors, carefully cut along both sides of the central vein (midrib) to separate it from the leaf. You will now have two long strips from each leaf. Ti leaves need to be softened in order to twist into a lei. They can be softened by:

   • Ironing the leaves on low heat

   • Microwave them for 15-second intervals until soft

   • Boil them briefly in water (make sure to pat dry)

   • Alternatively, freeze them overnight and thaw before use

3. Start Your Lei: Take two ti leaves and tie them into a knot(about 1-2" from the top).* Weigh down this top part or loop around a lei block, anything that will allow you to pull lei tight and give you stability. Using both hands, place one softened ti leave in your left and the other in your right hand. Start twisting both sides in the same direction, to the right. Once you've done a few twists to the right, take the side in your right hand (making sure to hold both sides taught) and wrap it over the second strip in the opposite direction (left). This creates a rope-like effect.

   Continue the twist, twist, twist, and wrap pattern by working your way down the length of the leaves, maintaining consistent tension to ensure an even twist.

   Add additional ti leaf strips as needed by overlapping new leaves with the ends of old ones and continuing to twist.

4. Once you reach your desired length, tie off both ends securely with a knot.

5. Take each knotted end and tie together to create a finished lei.

   *This is not the sole method for creating this type of lei. Various techniques exist, and it is up to the lei maker to determine which one suits them best. This is just how I learned and how I am most comfortable making this type of lei.

Tips for Success

• Practice makes perfect! Don't get discouraged if your first attempt isn't lei competition worthy.

• Keep your twists tight and consistent for a smooth look.

• Make sure your leaves are dry before you start. Processed ti leaves that aren't completely dry can get sticky when you twist.

Wearing Your Lei Lāʻī

Once complete, and depending on the length, your lei lāʻī can be worn around the neck, on the head as a lei po'o, or around the wrist/ankle as a kupe'e. Remember, in Hawaiian culture, it's considered disrespectful to refuse a lei or remove it in the presence of the giver.

Preserving Hawaiian Culture

By learning to make lei lāʻī, you're not just creating a beautiful adornment – you're participating in a rich cultural tradition. It's important to approach lei making with respect and understanding of its significance in Hawaiian culture.

Making your own lei lāʻī is a wonderful way to connect with Hawaiian culture, express creativity, and spread a little aloha wherever you go.