How to Make a Candy Lei

The candy lei is special gift that is simple to make and fun to receive. Present this delicious garland to celebrate your loved ones on any special occasion:

• Birthday
• Anniversary
• Graduation
• New Year's
• Valentine's Day
• Mother's/Father's Day
• Easter
• Halloween
• OR...just to say "I Love You"

With just a few simple materials, and about 15 minutes of free time, you can create a beautiful candy lei!!! Here's how...

• 3-5 feet of craft netting (you can also use cellophane or clear wrap)
• Pair of scissors
• Curling ribbon
• Personalized gift tag
• Decorative bow/ribbon
• Candy (15 - 50 individually-wrapped pieces)

NOTE: You can use any type of individually-wrapped candy, however, be wary of candy that will damage easily. Because your lei will be worn, body heat and weather conditions can cause the candies (such as chocolate) to melt. Tiny candy boxes are the easiest to use, however, any pouched or packaged candy will do the trick. You can use just one type of candy (to match a theme or preferred treat) OR mix and match different types to create a "rainbow" candy lei.

STEPS...

1. Measure your netting. The ideal length for a lei, from end to end, is about 48 inches. This length will create a large lei that will hang nicely. However, you can make smaller lei as well. Just remember- regardless of what length you choose, always leave an extra inch or two on each end for tying!

2. Create a small loop at the end of the netting and tie a knot (leaving the loop intact). This will be your connecting piece for the other end of the lei.

3. Place the first candy into the netting and push it all the way down to the looped knot.

4. Cut a strip of curling ribbon (about 2.5 - 3 in. long).

5. Place the curling ribbon strip after the netted candy and tie into a knot.

6. Add the next candy into the netting and tie off with another strip of curling ribbon.

7. Repeat step 6 until the lei has reached your desired length.

8. After the last strip of curling ribbon, add on your gift tag.

9. Once the gift tag is secured, take the loose end of your netting and pull it through the looped end. This will connect both ends of the lei together.

10. Double-knot the two ends together to prevent them from separating during use.

11. Tie your bow onto the lei to cover the knot.

12. Go back with your scissors to curl the ribbons (optional)

13. Viola!! Your candy lei is ready to be gifted ;)