How to Make a Poi

The iconic ‘ball’ on a string

Poi is the Maori word for ball on a cord. Many years ago Maori used Poi to encourage their wrists to become supple, increase dexterity in both of their arms and also improve agility.

Such skills were once useful when using all Māori weaponry such as the taiaha. The poi is still a common pastime that is actively practiced today, especially competitively with kapa haka performances.

What you need to make your own Poi:

Wool (different colours if you have them)
Stuffing – fabric scraps, foam, old socks etc…
Plastic bag
Sellotape

What to do:

Measure six strands of wool in two colours or multi colours.
For a SHORT POI, the strands need to be about the length of your forearm (from your elbow to your middle fingertip).
For a LONG POI, the strands should measure from your shoulder to your middle fingertip.
Hold the six strands together and tie a knot at one end.
Divide the six strands into three and start a three-plait from the knotted end. Once you’ve finished plaiting, knot the end, leaving enough strands of wool to tie around the ball of stuffing.
Grab a bunch of your stuffing and scrunch it up into a ball about the size of a fist. Tie the ends of the wool strands around the stuffing to hold the ball in place.
Put the plastic bag over the stuffing and gather it at the last knot you made. Tie with a separate piece of wool or string to hold it together.
Trim the plastic beneath the tie. Then finish it off by wrapping sticky tape around the tie.

Ka pai! You’ve made a POI!