I love making these for graduations, yearly pictures, Hawaiian Day at school, or when flowers aren’t the freshest but not ready to throw away.

Materials Needed:

• Raffia  
• Fresh flowers (roses (not fresh they can break easily), orchids, plumeria, or any preferred blooms)
• Scissors

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Raffia:
   • Get three strands of raffia. This allows room for braiding and adjusting to fit comfortably around the head.
2. Start Braiding:
   • Align the three strands together and tie a knot at one end to secure them.
   • Begin braiding the strands tightly for a few inches (3-4 inches). This braided section will serve as one of the ties at the end of the crown.
3. Adding Flowers:
   • Choose your first flower and position it where the braid ends.
   • Take one of the three rafia strands (preferably the one on the right) and wrap it around the flower twice to secure it snugly against the braid.
   • Make a small knot on the flower stem to hold it in place. This keeps the flower from slipping as you continue. You do not need to do this for every flower put down. 
4. Continue the Process:
   • Add the next flower just below the previous one. I like to make them with 3 flowers across. So a bigger bloom in the middle then adding smaller ones on the side.
   • Repeat the wrapping and knotting steps with the same strand of raffia.
   • Ensure the flowers overlap slightly to create a full and lush look.
5. Extending the Raffia:
   • If your raffia gets too short, simply tie on another piece securely and continue the process.
6. Completing the Lei:
   • Once you’ve added enough flowers to fit around the head, tie a few knots around the flowers then braid the remaining raffia for another few inches to create the second tie.
   • Tie off the braid with a knot to secure it.
7. Final Assembly:
   • Bring both braided ends together, wrap them around each other, or tie them into a bow for an adjustable fit.

Tips for a Beautiful and Long-Lasting Haku Lei:

• Use Three Strands of Flowers: This technique provides better structure and holds the flowers securely with the raffia.
• Flower Choice: Be cautious with delicate flowers like fresh roses, as they break easily. Consider sturdier blooms.
• Keep Flowers Fresh: Mist the lei lightly with water and store it in a fridge until ready to wear.
• Secure Knots Firmly: Ensuring each flower is tightly knotted will make the lei more durable.

Enjoy crafting your beautiful, personalized haku lei/flower crown!