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Continue ShoppingNew in 2024 we have invented several new designs with unique colors and designs. Akalei Designs continues innovating exclusively on Maui. All of our Glass Beaded Necklace Lei are handcrafted & woven using a Japanese braiding technique called "Kumihimo" on a wooden stand called a Marudai. We call our necklaces "Forever" Hawaiian Lei as they are made with hundreds of Japanese Glass Beads and/or Natural Fibers, so can last forever. We were showcased on "HI Now" in 2023 as part of the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement / Pop-Up Marketplace and enjoy giving back to the efforts of Lahaina Strong and Kihei Canoe Club fundraising campaigns.
Silk Fiber with Metallic Kumihimo Fiber - Red & Red Metallic Fiber 2"
The solid red silk (imitation silk) is accentuated with red metallic threads that has rust, blue, and silver threads so the metallic fibers pop out as sparkly for the perfect accent to a wardrobe. An extra strong silver toned magnet end allows you to wear with no worry of it falling off. It measures 20” worn and as with other similar products may be used as a hat band.
This extraordinary necklace was woven together using metallic and imitation silk fibers. This unique necklace look is created by braiding together 12 different ‘bunches” of fiber in an “Off Balance” design technique. Altogether there are hundreds of strands that comprise this piece, leaving it luxurious yet flexible. By coiling the spirals you may make it a tighter braid, or tug lightly to stretch out a bit more.
Akalei is Hawaiian for "bead reflections" which describes this unique necklace lei design style made only here on Maui. We reinterpret and illuminate traditional Hawaiian Lei using a vast assortment of glass and natural beads, Japanese silk and synthetic fibers, and a wide variety of braiding techniques and inspirations from across the globe.
Kumihimo is an ancient Japanese braid making technique that creates beautiful and strong interlaced cords. This art form goes back hundreds of years as braids were made for use in armor of Japanese samurai warriors. In modern times these braids are designed as belts (obijime) that are worn as a belt with a kimono.
Customized orders are welcomed - these braids can be made using Japanese Silks and various small (4-6mm) size pearls or semi-precious stones. Please contact me at info@akaleidesigns.com.
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