Throughout history, man has collected shells. Shells have been used for tools, lures, fishhooks, trumpets, medicine, jewelry, toys and occasionally money. Today in Hawaii, shell collecting is a popular past-time – after-all, living on an island gives us access to beautiful beaches filled with a vast variety of shells year round. Though shell lei making has been done in Hawaii for hundreds of years, today it has evolved into an art form. Modern tools, supplies, methods and styles are used allowing the process of shell lei making to be an enjoyable, satisfying and relaxing hobby. With a little imagination for combining shells, colors, patterns the design possibilities are endless. Hawaiian Shell Lei Making is written for the beginner shell lei maker. It has easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions along with clear photographs for 40 shell let projects.