Master Niihau Shell Lei-Maker To Teach

Just in time for holiday gift-giving, Kele Kanahele, master shell lei maker from the island of Ni`ihau, returns to the Lyman Museum in December to teach how to create beautiful Ni`ihau jewelry pieces.

“Ni`ihau Shell Workshops” will take place 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Friday, Dec. 13, and Saturday, Dec. 14.

Necklaces (lei), bracelets, and earrings created in the pikake style may be made using momi ke`oke`o shells (white), momi lenalena shells (yellow), or momi `ōnikiniki shells (white with dark specks), according to the Lyman Museum’s web site.

On either day you may learn how to make an 18-inch necklace ($205), a bracelet ($85), or a pair of earrings ($65), or more than one piece, as long as you sign up for specific pieces in advance.

Space is limited to 25 participants per day. Reservations must be made, pieces and colors specified, and the workshop fee(s) paid by Friday, Nov. 29, to ensure your place and the availability of shells.

Call 935-5021 ext. 101, stop by the museum’s admissions desk, or visit www.lymanmuseum.org, for more information.