Leis, beautiful garlands of flowers, are more than just adornments; they represent love, respect, and the spirit of Aloha. Receiving a lei is a special occasion, and preserving it allows you to cherish the memory for years to come. There are several methods, each offering different approaches to preserving the vibrant colors and delicate shapes of your treasured lei. This guide will walk you through various techniques, answering common questions along the way.
How Long Do Leis Last?
The lifespan of a fresh lei depends heavily on the type of flowers used and the environmental conditions. Generally, leis made with delicate flowers like plumeria or orchids will last only a few hours to a day, while more robust flowers like tuberose or ginger may last a little longer, possibly up to a couple of days. High temperatures and humidity can significantly shorten their lifespan.
How Can I Preserve a Lei for a Long Time?
Several methods exist for preserving your lei, each with its pros and cons:
1. Pressing a Lei:
This method is best for flatter, single-layer leis. It won't preserve the three-dimensional shape perfectly, but it captures the essence of the flowers.
- Process: Carefully lay the lei flat between sheets of absorbent paper (newspaper or blotting paper works well) inside heavy books or a flower press. Weight it down for several weeks, changing the paper every few days to absorb moisture. Once dry, you can frame it or store it in a protective sleeve.
2. Air Drying a Lei:
This is a simple method, but it can lead to some color fading and distortion.
- Process: Hang the lei upside down in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This allows the flowers to dry naturally. This process can take several days or weeks, depending on the flowers and the environment.
3. Glycerin Preservation:
This method helps maintain the flexibility and color of the flowers, though it alters their texture slightly, giving them a more leathery feel. It's ideal for thicker leis with sturdier flowers.
- Process: This requires a glycerin solution (typically a 1:1 ratio of glycerin and water). Submerge the lei in the solution for several weeks, ensuring it is completely immersed. Check regularly and add more solution as needed. Once the flowers feel pliable but not overly wet, remove them, gently wipe off excess solution, and let them air dry completely.
4. Freezing a Lei:
While freezing can preserve the flowers, it isn't ideal for long-term preservation as it can affect their color and texture. Consider this more of a temporary solution.
- Process: Carefully place the lei in a freezer bag and freeze it. This can temporarily maintain the lei's appearance for a short period but isn't a long-term preservation method.
What are the Best Flowers for Preserving a Lei?
Flowers that are denser and less delicate tend to preserve better. Hibiscus, certain orchids, and some types of ginger flowers often hold up well to preservation methods. Delicate flowers like plumeria can be preserved, but more care is required, and the result may be less vibrant.
How Do I Display My Preserved Lei?
Once preserved, you can display your lei in several ways:
- Framing: A framed pressed lei makes a beautiful piece of art.
- Shadow Box: A shadow box allows for a three-dimensional display, ideal for air-dried or glycerin-preserved leis.
- Display Case: A clear display case protects the lei from dust and damage.
Preserving your lei allows you to extend the beauty and meaning of this special gift. Choose the method that best suits the type of flowers and your desired outcome, and enjoy the lasting memory of your lei for years to come.
