San Jose State Graduation Lei

Making a graduation lei is such a heartfelt way to celebrate someone's big day, and while flower leis are beautiful, I've found that money leis are incredibly popular, especially for college graduates! I remember when I first decided to try making a 'bow tie money lei' for my cousin's graduation. It seemed a bit daunting at first, but it turned out to be so rewarding and much easier than I expected. The look on their face was absolutely worth the effort! The tradition of giving leis is rooted in Hawaiian culture, signifying love, honor, and celebration. For graduations, a money lei is a modern twist that combines this beautiful tradition with a practical gift. There’s something extra special about a handmade one – it shows so much thought and effort beyond just handing over an envelope. It becomes a memorable part of their special day. To create a 'bow tie money lei,' you usually start by carefully folding dollar bills into small fan or bow tie shapes. I typically use crisp, new bills to make them look really neat and professional. For a classic bow tie look, you fold each bill accordion-style, then fold it in half and secure the center with a thin wire, a small rubber band, or even a piece of decorative ribbon. Once you have a collection of these 'bow ties,' you can then attach them to a longer ribbon or string. For a true 'lei circle design,' you'd connect these individual bow ties or other folded money shapes to form a continuous, unbroken loop. This gives it that traditional lei shape that's perfect for wearing around the neck. Beyond the basic bow tie, there are so many creative ways to fold money for a lei. Some people try intricate origami folds, creating stars or even small flower shapes from the bills. I've seen leis where people alternate between folded bills and colorful beads, or even small candies, to add texture and visual interest. Using the graduate's school colors – like the vibrant yellow and blue I used for the San Jose State lei – really personalizes it and makes it even more special. You can get ribbons in those exact shades and string them through, or use colored paper clips if you're going for a more casual look. What I love most about making these is the creative freedom. You can vary the denominations of the bills to fit your budget, mix in different textures with ribbons and beads, or even add small personal charms that represent their achievements or future aspirations. It's not just about the monetary value; it's about the time and love you put into making a truly memorable keepsake. Seeing the graduate's face light up when they receive a custom money lei is priceless! It's definitely a practical gift that stands out and truly celebrates their achievement. Plus, it’s a fun, relaxing project to do, much like crafting the floral leis. If you're looking for a unique, personal, and highly appreciated graduation gift, I highly recommend trying your hand at a handmade money lei – it's a gesture they'll truly remember.