Easy Kindergarten Graduation Lei Tutorial

If you have a little one finishing up kindergarten, you know that this is a big deal to them. They’ve learned their ABCs, mastered the art of the glue stick, and are ready to take on the "big kids" school.

To celebrate my little graduate when she finished K, I wanted to make something special that wouldn't wilt by the time the ceremony was over (sorry, fresh flowers!). That’s where the an easy braided ribbon lei comes in.

It’s the perfect DIY project. It's super budget-friendly, looks adorable in photos, and it's easy enough to whip up while you’re catching up on your favorite Netflix show.

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The Night Before series is great for any big event in your kiddo's life. If s/he is feeling nervous about graduation from kindergarten, make sure to pick up a copy of The Night Before Kindergarten Graduation to soothe any fears!

Why this ribbon lei is perfect for kindergarten graduation

You can use school colors. You can customize it to match their school colors (or just their favorite colors!).

It's durable. Unlike fresh flowers, this lei can be tucked away in a memory box for years to come.

It's comfortable. Kindergarteners are wiggly. These ribbon leis are lightweight and won't itch or irritate their necks during a long ceremony.

Materials needed to make a kindergarten graduation lei

• Two spools of ⅜" satin ribbon. Pick two different colors.
  • You need about 5 yards of each color to make a kid sized lei.
• Sharp scissors
• A lighter or Fray Check to keep those ends looking sharp.

How to make an easy ribbon lei

This really is so easy a child can do it! (Please pardon the poor quality photo. I didn't want to interrupt the process)

I highly recommend that you watch the video. It's much easier to learn this lei making process when you can see a demonstration!

The Prep

Pull about 10-12 inches of ribbon off each spool, but don't cut them yet! Working directly off the spools is important because you won't run out of ribbon halfway through.

Carefully singe the ends.

Start Your Loop

Tie a simple slip knot in each ribbon about 10-12 inches from the end.

The First "Stitch"

Slide the Color B loop through the slip knot loop of Color A. Pull the tail of Color A until it’s snug around the Color B loop.

Repeat on the other side

Now make a bunny ear loop in your second color (in this example, the light purple):

Pass this through the first color's loop (in this case, dark purple):

Cinch is down.

The Pattern

Now you just repeat the process:

• Make a loop with Color A.
• Push it through the loop of Color B.
• Pull the tail of Color B to snug it up.
• Then flip the order: Make a loop with Color B, push it through Color A, and pull Color A snug.

Keep Going

You’ll see a cool checkerboard pattern start to form. Just keep alternating!

Since this is for a kindergartener, you won't need it to be as long as a standard adult lei. About 30-32 inches is usually the "sweet spot" for 5 and 6-year-olds.

Finishing Touches

Once it’s long enough, cut your ribbons (leave about 8 inches of tail).

Pull the last tail all the way through the final loop to lock it in place.

Tie the two ends together in a sturdy knot, and finish it off with a bow, if you want.

Give it to your little learner!

Pro Tip: If you want to make it extra "Kindergarten-special," you can use a little hot glue to attach a small card with their graduation year or even a lightweight "Class of 20--" charm!

Ready for the Big Day!

And that’s it! You’ve got a handmade, heartfelt gift that your little grad will be so proud to wear. It’s such a sweet way to say "I'm proud of you" as they walk across that stage (or cafeteria floor) to get their diploma.