How to Make a Lei

In this homage to the "circle of aloha," viewers are shown the supplies, flower preparation steps, and needle-technique necessary to construct two basic types of lei: the pololei-mixed-with-kui-lau style, and the poe poe style. Our disconcertingly blonde, childlike instructor also demonstrates bow-making with ribbon and twining with Spanish moss, guides us around a lei shop, and explains lei-giving protocol, in addition to occasionally providing info on Hawaiian culture and etymology. For instance, we learn that the lei is a commemorative given on milestones such as birthdays, graduations, anniversaries, and weddings; that many people save the leis they receive; and that leis were once routinely constructed of human hair, shells, feathers, and seeds. Though bare-bones production-wise and lacking the tight, close-up camerawork found in first-rate how-to's, this tape does deliver all the basics the neophyte might need to start on this regional craft, and supports the interest in Hawaii that our new Miss America might inspire, so consider this a strong, optional purchase. Aud: P. (K. Glaser)