A lei is a part of everyday life in Hawaii and has become a symbol for the state. Leis are traditionally made from fresh flowers, such as orchids. Making a lei at home requires only a few supplies besides the flowers. Orchids are expensive and not as readily available, but a lei can be made from any flower. Carnations are particularly easy to string together. Once finished, a lei should be stored in a refrigerator before use.
Cut the stems from the blossoms. Line the blossoms up in a row.
Measure and cut off 50 inches of dental floss. Thread the dental floss through the lei needle. Clip the alligator clip onto the floss about five inches from the end furthest from the needle.
Place the needle through the middle of the base of a flower. Depending on the flower type, various amounts of pressure will need to be used. Fragile flowers will require only a little pressure while more sturdy types will need more. Put two more flowers on the needle and then slide the flowers down through the floss, all the way to the alligator clip.
String flowers on the floss until five inches remain. Remove the alligator clip and needle and tie both ends in a knot to make a circle.
Insert the finished lei in a food storage bag and place in the refrigerator on the highest temperature until ready to use.
