DIY Graduation Money Lei: Step-by-Step Tutorial (No Sewing)

Want to give a graduation gift that gets worn, photographed and remembered? Make a money lei. It takes about 20 minutes, needs no sewing, and turns cash into the star of the ceremony — which is exactly why "DIY graduation money lei" and "money lei tutorial" are among the most-searched graduation lei terms every season. Here's the method we teach resellers who build money leis at scale.

What You'll Need

• Cash: $20–$100 in bills (see the cost section below for how many)
• A ribbon lei base: a braided 120cm polyester ribbon lei is the professional foundation — $1.20 at retail, $0.75/pc wholesale
• Double-sided tape (or a low-temp glue gun — optional)
• Scissors
• Optional: wrapped candy, mini ribbons, a graduation charm for the closure

Step 1: Fold the Bills

Fold each bill in half lengthwise (hot-dog style), then in half again widthwise so it forms a small compact rectangle. Ironing bills first makes crisp, clean folds.

Step 2: Tape the First Bill

Place the first folded bill at the end of the ribbon lei, about 10cm from the end. Wrap a short piece of double-sided tape around the ribbon and press the bill against it so it stands upright. Add a second bill on the opposite side of the ribbon for a fuller look.

Step 3: Space Them Evenly

Continue taping bills along the ribbon, alternating sides (left, right, left, right) so the lei looks balanced from every angle. Space bills 6–8cm apart — close enough to look full, far enough to show the ribbon color between them.

Step 4: Add Accents

For a candy-money combo lei, tape wrapped candies between bills — kids love this version. For a keepsake touch, add a graduation charm or a small "Class of 2026" printed ribbon at the center.

Step 5: Finish the Ends

Tie the two open ends of the ribbon together into a knot to form the lei loop, tucking the taped end inside. Fluff the bills so they fan outward.

Step 6: Wrap It

Money leis get photographed — a clear cellophane wrap with a bow keeps the bills in place during travel and keeps the surprise for the ceremony.

Design Variations That Get Searched

• Money lei for her / girls: use crisper bills, pastel ribbon accents, add a pearl or flower charm
• Money lei for him / guys: darker ribbon base, sporty colors, no frills — see our money lei ideas for guys
• Dollar-fold styles: accordion-fan bills or rolled "blossom" folds for a flower effect
• Gift card lei: tape a gift card at the center as the centerpiece
• Double money lei: two ribbon strands braided together, bills on both — the showpiece version

How Much Does a Money Lei Cost to Make?

Your only real cost is the cash itself. A full-looking lei uses about 20–30 folded bills (use $1s for volume, larger bills for value). The ribbon base is $1.20 retail — or wholesale from $0.75 if you're making a batch for a class or group of friends. Total time: about 20 minutes per lei.

Prefer a Ready-Made Lei?

Short on time? Our braided ribbon leis, honor wreaths with year print and complete lei + cord + sash sets arrive ready to wear — you add the money or candy yourself in minutes. Schools and resellers: bulk pricing from $0.75/pc, MOQ 1 dozen, and we can custom-weave your school colors.