Introduction
The graduation ceremony is a time of celebration and achievement. It’s a significant milestone for students who have devoted years of hard work to earn a degree or diploma. One of the traditional ways to show appreciation and congratulate graduates is by giving lei. Lei is a symbol of honor, respect, and affection commonly exchanged in Hawaiian, Samoan, and other Pacific Islander cultures.
If you’re searching for a unique and creative way to gift money to your graduate, a money lei is an ideal choice. It’s not only practical, but it also adds a personal touch to your present. There are various designs and styles to choose from, depending on your preference and skill level. In this article, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide, expert advice, video tutorials, and design ideas to help you create a beautiful and memorable money lei for graduation.
Step-by-step guide
Before we begin, let’s prepare the following materials:
- 20-30 currency notes (dollar bills or other bills), depending on the size and length of the lei
- String (ribbon, fishing line, or elastic cord) – at least 2-3 yards
- Scissors
- Optional add-ons (flowers, beads, ribbons, etc.)
Now, let’s start folding, knotting, and stringing the currency notes to create the lei.
- Fold the currency note in half, vertically, with the president’s portrait facing out.
- Make another fold on the bottom third, tucking the bottom edge behind the top two-thirds.
- Rotate the note and fold it again in half, so the portrait is pointing downwards, and the bottom edges align.
- Continue making folds until the entire length of the money bill is folded.
- Take the string, fold it in half, and make a knot at the end. This will be the starting point of the lei.
- Slide the folded currency note under the string and pull it through the folded part until it reaches the knot.
- Tie a knot around the folded note, securing it in place.
- Repeat steps 5-7 until all currency notes are strung together, creating a continuous chain.
- Decorate the lei with flowers, ribbons, beads, or any add-ons as desired.
Visual aids
The step-by-step guide may seem complicated, but don’t worry. We’ve got you covered with clear and easy-to-follow visual aids. Check out these photos or illustrations to guide you through each step of the process.
Tips and tricks
To make your money lei look professional and neat, here are some tips and tricks:
- Choose crisp, new currency notes to avoid wrinkles and tears that could detract from the lei’s appearance.
- Ensure the folds are tight and even to avoid gaps or knots.
- Adjust the spacing between the currency notes to create a balanced and consistent look.
- Consider varying the direction of the folds to create a more intricate design.
- Use contrasting colors or patterns for the string or add-ons to make the lei stand out.
Video tutorial
If you’re a visual learner, you may find our video tutorial more helpful. Here, our expert will demonstrate the process of making a money lei step-by-step. Click on this link to watch the tutorial.
Infographic
For a more comprehensive and engaging visual representation, we’ve created an infographic detailing the step-by-step process of making a money lei. The infographic also includes icons or other imagery to represent each step. Check out the infographic below!
Expert advice
We’ve consulted Lei-Making Expert, Sarah Kim, to provide you with some hacks, tips, and insider knowledge on making a money lei. Here are some valuable tips from her:
- Practice makes perfect – Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn’t turn out completely. Keep practicing and experimenting with different techniques.
- Use an awl or other pointed tool to create clean, precise folds that help with knotting and stringing the currency notes.
- Consider using different denominations of currency notes to create a more visually appealing design.
- Pre-plan the spacing and order of the currency notes to achieve a balanced look.
- Use a glue gun or double-sided tape to secure any add-ons to the currency notes or string.
Unique designs
Money lei can be designed in various shapes and styles, depending on personal preference, cultural traditions, or graduation themes. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
Traditional designs: Single or double braided lei, rose or butterfly design, accordion or fan-style lei, flower or leaf patterns.
Cultural designs: Use flora and fauna found in Pacific Islander countries, such as plumeria, ti leaves, or kukui nuts.
Seasonal designs: Incorporate seasonal elements, such as snowflakes for winter graduation or flowers for spring graduation.
Creative designs: Integrate the graduate’s major or future career into the lei design, such as books, pencils, or stethoscopes.
Conclusion
In summary, money lei is a unique and creative gift to celebrate the graduate’s accomplishments. With our step-by-step guide, visual aids, video tutorial, expert advice, design ideas, and tips and tricks, you’re well-equipped to create a beautiful and personalized money lei for your loved ones. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced lei-maker, there’s always room for experimentation and creativity. Go ahead and try it out!
Remember, the best present always comes from the heart.