Lei making class using ribbon

Question

Hi hive mind - I have googled and searched but no luck. I would love to do a lei making class using ribbons or similar (ie not with flowers). I recently made a very simple one for my daughter's university graduation. They are very popular here with the islander communities and I bought one last time I was in Hawaii (in Kauai) which I love. I will be in both Oahu and Maui if anyone has any thoughts. Lots of flowers classes but no non-flower ones. There are lots of online tutorials but they are pretty tricky (the one I made for myself took ages to get right) so would love to have input from an expert

Answer

Ribbon lei making is a beautiful craft that is distinct from traditional flower lei classes, and it is especially popular for celebratory events like graduations, birthdays, and weddings. These leis use satin, grosgrain, or other types of ribbon to create intricate patterns, often incorporating braiding, twisting, or looping techniques. The good news is that both Oahu and Maui offer opportunities to learn these skills, though they are less commonly advertised than flower lei classes.

Some options and suggestions for finding a ribbon lei class include:

Check with local cultural centers and community organizations, such as the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, which sometimes offers specialized craft workshops, including ribbon lei making.
Craft stores like Michaels or local bead and ribbon shops occasionally host workshops or can connect you with instructors for private or small group lessons.
Tourist-focused cultural tours or workshops sometimes include ribbon lei classes in their itinerary, especially on Maui near Lahaina or Kihei.

Additional ways to explore ribbon lei making include:

Looking for private lessons via platforms like Airbnb Experiences or Viator, where local artisans may offer one-on-one or small group instruction.
Visiting local farmers markets or craft fairs, as many artisans sell ribbon leis and may offer quick lessons or tips if approached politely.
Joining Hawaiian quilting or craft guilds; some members are skilled in ribbon lei and may offer weekend workshops or private lessons.

For a first-time learner, it’s recommended to bring your own ribbon, scissors, and any embellishments you like. Classes may take a couple of hours depending on the complexity of the lei. Hands-on instruction is often the best way to get the braiding or folding technique right, as online tutorials can be challenging without guidance.

Overall, while non-flower lei classes are less common, connecting with cultural centers, craft shops, and local artisans can yield rewarding opportunities to learn this unique Hawaiian craft in both Oahu and Maui.