How to Make Hawaiian Poi Balls Out of Plastic Grocery Bags
The art of poi is catching on all over the world as a fun hobby and art form. Spinning poi began as a form of creative dance and storytelling in Polynesian societies. Poi balls were introduced into the Hawaiian hula culture by the Maori people. Poi simply means "ball" in Maori. The rhythmic way the weighted balls are spun improves hand-eye coordination and reflexes. You can make your own poi balls easily using things you already have around the house.
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Things You'll Need
- Weight (rice, sand, seeds or 2 tennis balls)
- String/cord
- Plastics grocery bags
- Scissors
Instructions
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1
Fill one plastic grocery bag with a weight of your choice. Tennis balls are a good size and weight. You can also use rice, seeds or sand if you don't have tennis balls.
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2
Twist the plastic bag around your weight until it is a tight ball.
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3
Tie a secure knot at the top of your ball with the excess plastic grocery bag.
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4
Place your ball in another plastic bag. Double bagging will protect your seeds, rice or sand from spilling out. Twist and tie the bag as in Steps 2 and 3.
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5
Trim the excess plastic grocery bag from the top with scissors.
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6
Determine how long you want the poi cord to be. A good length is measured from your waist to just below your knee, about two to three feet. Add six inches to your length for the hand loop.
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7
Tie one end of the cord to your poi ball. Make a loop at the other end of the cord big enough for your hand to fit through. Tie a secure knot.
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8
Repeat Steps 1 through 7 for your second poi.
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1
Tips & Warnings
It is a good idea to braid three or four pieces of yarn, string or cord for the handle. This will make your poi stronger.
The heavier you make the poi balls, the slower they will spin. Remember, as you learn, you will hit yourself, so make sure they are light enough to not bruise.
