12 DIY Money Leis for Graduation for Boys: Unique and Creative Ideas
Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating, and what better way to honor the achievement than with a personalized, memorable gift? Money leis have become a popular way to combine celebration with generosity, especially in graduation ceremonies. They symbolize prosperity, good luck, and the bright future ahead. Creating DIY money leis for boys adds a personal touch that can make the gift even more special.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through 12 creative, easy-to-make money leis perfect for celebrating graduation for boys. Each idea is designed to be unique, fun, and Pinterest-friendly, complete with image prompts to inspire your crafting process. Let’s dive in!
1. Classic Money Lei with Rolled Bills
Overview:
The timeless money lei features rolled bills strung together with decorative beads or ribbon, creating a lush, floral-like garland.
Materials Needed:
- U.S. dollar bills (or local currency)
- Floral wire or strong thread
- Decorative beads or ribbon
- Scissors
Steps:
- Carefully roll each bill into a tight cylinder, securing the end with a small piece of tape if needed.
- Thread the floral wire or thread through the center of each roll.
- Alternate with beads or tie in a decorative ribbon between bills for added flair.
- Continue until the desired length is achieved.
- Finish with a decorative knot or bow.
2. Money Chain with Folded Bills
Overview:
This design connects folded bills into a chain, creating a sleek, modern look.
Materials Needed:
- Folded bills (accordion style)
- Clear fishing line or string
- Beads (optional)
Steps:
- Fold each bill accordion-style, creating uniform pleats.
- Thread the folded bills onto the fishing line, connecting each with a small knot or bead.
- Continue adding until the desired length is reached.
- Secure the ends with a knot or decorative clasp.
3. Money Flower Lei
Overview:
Create floral shapes from bills to mimic flowers, then assemble into a lei.
Materials Needed:
- Dollar bills or currency of choice
- Floral wire or pipe cleaners
- Tape or glue
- Beads or decorative accents
Steps:
- Fold each bill into a flower shape (e.g., origami tulip or rose).
- Secure the base with floral wire or pipe cleaner.
- Attach flowers together using wire or string to form a lei.
- Add beads or additional decorations for a lush appearance.
4. Money Bow Tie Lei
Overview:
Combine the classic graduation accessory with money by creating bow tie-shaped currency ornaments.
Materials Needed:
- Bills
- Ribbon or string
- Small clips or glue
Steps:
- Fold each bill into a bow tie shape.
- Secure with a small clip or glue.
- String the bow ties together with ribbon or thread.
- Add a decorative bow or ribbon at the center.

5. Money Necklace with Charms
Overview:
Create a personalized money necklace with attached charms or initials.
Materials Needed:
- Bills folded into small shapes
- Necklace chain or cord
- Charms or letter beads
- Jump rings and pliers
Steps:
- Fold bills into small decorative shapes (e.g., stars, hearts).
- Attach charms or initials using jump rings.
- String everything onto the necklace chain or cord.
- Finish with a clasp.

6. Money Fan Lei
Overview:
Create a fan-shaped lei by folding bills into fans and attaching them together.
Materials Needed:
- Bills
- Glue or tape
- String or ribbon
- Decorative elements (e.g., beads, tassels)
Steps:
- Fold each bill into a fan shape.
- Attach the fans side by side with glue or tape.
- String the assembled fans onto a ribbon or thread.
- Decorate with beads or tassels at the ends for flair.

7. Money Chain with Beaded Accents
Overview:
Intertwine bills with colorful beads to create a lively, textured lei.
Materials Needed:
- Folded or rolled bills
- Beads in various colors
- String or thin wire
Steps:
- Fold or roll bills into small shapes.
- Thread beads and bills alternately onto the string or wire.
- Continue until desired length.
- Tie off securely.

8. Currency Origami Shapes (Stars, Hearts)
Overview:
Transform bills into intricate origami shapes, then string them into a unique lei.
Materials Needed:
- Dollar bills or currency
- Thread or thin wire
Steps:
- Fold each bill into origami shapes like stars or hearts.
- Secure shapes with tape if necessary.
- String the shapes onto a thread or wire.
- Arrange for a balanced, attractive design.

9. Money Pocket Lei
Overview:
Create small pockets from bills to hold tiny notes or messages, forming a functional lei.
Materials Needed:
- Bills
- Small decorative clips or stitches
- String or ribbon
Steps:
- Fold each bill into a small pouch or pocket.
- Insert mini notes or messages inside.
- Attach pockets to a string or ribbon.
- Secure the ends and add decorations.

10. Money Ribbon Garland
Overview:
Use long strips of bills tied into a ribbon-like arrangement.
Materials Needed:
- Bills cut into strips
- Ribbon or string
- Decorative accents
Steps:
- Carefully cut bills into long strips.
- Tie or knot strips along a ribbon or string to resemble a garland.
- Decorate with small charms or beads.
- Hang or wear as a celebratory accessory.

11. Money Medallion Lei
Overview:
Create medallion-shaped currency ornaments, then assemble into a striking lei.
Materials Needed:
- Bills
- Medallion templates (cut from cardstock)
- Glue or tape
- String or wire
Steps:
- Cut medallion shapes from bills or fold bills into medallion shapes.
- Attach medallions to a string or wire.
- Add decorative elements around the medallions.
- Finish with a bow or ribbon.

12. Personalized Money Banner
Overview:
Combine currency with personal messages or initials to make a banner-style lei.
Materials Needed:
- Bills
- Letter stickers or stamps
- String or ribbon
- Clips or tape
Steps:
- Write messages or initials on bills using stickers or stamps.
- Attach bills to a string or ribbon.
- Decorate with additional embellishments.
- Display or wear during celebration.

Final Tips for Making DIY Money Leis
- Plan ahead: Decide on the design and gather all materials before starting.
- Use fresh bills: For a polished look, use crisp, clean bills.
- Secure carefully: Ensure all knots, clips, or glue are tight to prevent unraveling.
- Personalize: Add charms, initials, or messages to make the lei uniquely meaningful.
- Safety first: Be cautious with sharp tools or small parts, especially when children are involved.
Why DIY Money Leis Make Perfect Graduation Gifts
- Personal Touch: Handcrafted leis show effort and thoughtfulness.
- Customizable: You can tailor designs to suit the graduate’s personality and style.
- Memorable: These leis become keepsakes that remind graduates of their special day.
- Festive: Adds a fun, colorful element to graduation celebrations.
- Practical: Money gifts help support graduates in their next adventure.
Final Thoughts
Creating DIY money leis for boys’ graduation celebrations is a rewarding experience that combines creativity, personalization, and celebration. Whether you opt for the classic rolled bills, origami shapes, or personalized banners, each design offers a unique way to honor the graduate’s achievement and bright future.
Get inspired, gather your materials, and start crafting these beautiful, Pinterest-friendly leis today! Your effort will surely be appreciated and remembered for years to come.
Image Prompts Summary:
- Lush rolled bill lei with beads
- Elegant chain of folded bills with metallic accents
- Vibrant flower-shaped dollar bill lei
- Stylish money bow ties linked together
- Personalized currency necklace with charms
- Wide fan-shaped lei of golden bills
- Multicolored money lei with beads
- Origami currency stars and hearts lei
- Tiny bill pockets with notes
- Colorful bill strip garland
- Gold medallion currency lei
- Personalized money banner with messages
Happy Crafting and Congratulations to all graduates!