Creating a Gardenia Lei
Observe Master Lei Maker Kaipo Ah Chong as he teaches you how to make a traditional gardenia lei.
Welcome To Your Classroom!
Topics Covered In This Class
1Introduction
Learn about Kaipo's background as a lei maker and which seasons are optimal to create a gardenia lei.
2Harvesting Gardenia
Learn the proper way to maintain your gardenia hedges to prevent bugs and other browning elements from tarnishing your flowers prior to harvesting.
3Learning Sewing Direction
Learn how to appropriately cut, center, and position your gardenia for sewing them into a lei.
4Finishing Touches
Discover the finishing touches you can add to your lei to ensure it feels complete.
Class Materials
1. Base Materials
Try to make your lei with strong lasting materials or if possible, biodegradable products. Kite string is a wonderful choice for this project, or biodegradable string. A lei needle will also be needed to string together your lei.
2. Gardenias
Gardenias grow on hedges and can be susceptible to bugs on the flower. To get the best flowers possible for your lei, we highly recommend trimming and taking care of your gardenia hedges in advance of picking your flowers -- this will make the flower selection process easier.
3. Additional Materials
You will also need a bowl filled with water, a single Hawaiian ti leaf (or similar), raffia, and scissors.
About Your Instructor
Kaipo Ah Chong
A tropical agriculture farmer and member of Halau Na Kamalei, Kaipo Ah Chong shares his expert skills and years of experience with the Volcano community on a regular basis through hands-on demonstrations and workshops at the Volcano Art Center.
