Making a flower money lei is a fun and creative project that combines floral elements with dollar bills, often used for celebrations like graduations or special occasions. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a beautiful flower money lei:
Materials Needed:
– Fresh flowers (such as orchids, carnations, or any flower of your choice)
– Dollar bills (folded into a desired shape)
– Floral wire or string
– Scissors
– A small piece of tape (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Flowers:
– Choose flowers that are fresh and vibrant. Cut the stems of the flowers to about 3-4 inches in length. This will make it easier to attach them to the lei.
2. Prepare the Dollar Bills:
– Take the dollar bills and fold them to create a decorative shape. One common method is to fold each bill into an accordion style or roll them tightly. Secure them with a small piece of tape if needed.
3. Cut the Wire/String:
– Cut a length of floral wire or string long enough to create a lei that fits comfortably around the neck. A typical length is around 36 to 45 inches.
4. Assemble the Lei:
– Start by threading a flower onto the wire or string, followed by a folded dollar bill. Alternate between flowers and dollar bills until you reach the desired length.
– If using floral wire, you can bend the wire to secure the flowers and bills in place as you go. If using string, tie knots after each addition to ensure they don’t slide around.
5. Secure the Ends:
– Once you have added enough flowers and bills, secure the ends of the wire or string. If using floral wire, twist the ends together firmly. If using string, tie the ends in a knot.
6. Add Finishing Touches:
– Check the lei for balance and adjust the placement of the flowers and bills if necessary. You can also add decorative ribbons or additional flowers for extra flair.
7. Presentation:
– Place the finished lei on a decorative surface or present it in a gift box.
Tips:
– Choose flowers that will hold up well without water for a few hours, especially if it will be worn for a long time.
– Be mindful of allergies when selecting flowers and materials.
– Personalize the lei by using different denominations or adding a theme based on the occasion.
Creating a flower money lei is a thoughtful way to celebrate someone special while combining beauty and practicality. Enjoy your crafting!
