Weave Raffia Into Your Interiors for Natural Appeal
Still tied to the idea of raffia for just gift wrapping? You're missing out on gorgeous fabrics, accessories and even wall coverings
Gabrielle Di Stefano
July 11, 2013
Houzz Contributor
Most of us think of raffia as a ribbon to use in crafts — but this versatile fiber has been used in interiors for centuries. Made out of fibers from dried palm, durable and flexible raffia can be used for much more than wrapping presents. This material's soft but pliable texture has made it a popular textile for wallpaper, upholstery fabric and accessories.
Discover raffia's pros and cons here and see how you can use this natural material around the home.
Discover raffia's pros and cons here and see how you can use this natural material around the home.
The basics. Raffia is a natural fiber harvested from a specific type of palm tree found in Africa, South America and parts of the Philippines. The membrane on the back of each leaf is torn off to create a long and thin fiber. The light-colored fibers are dried and then used for craft products or dyed and woven into textiles.
Tip: Handwoven raffia from Africa or the Philippines that has been yarn dyed prior to weaving has the most consistent color.
Tip: Handwoven raffia from Africa or the Philippines that has been yarn dyed prior to weaving has the most consistent color.
Ancient uses. As early as the 14th century, textiles (including raffia cloth) were used as currency all across Africa. The size, quality and color of the textile determined its value. Large pieces were used as payment and were given at weddings and funerals.
Tip: For just a touch of raffia interest at a lower cost than cloth, dress up your ottomans or furniture with raffia fringe.
Tip: For just a touch of raffia interest at a lower cost than cloth, dress up your ottomans or furniture with raffia fringe.
Kuba cloth is a traditional patterned textile made from the raffia tree by the Kuba people in Congo. They dye the raffia leaves using mud or liquid from the camwood tree, and then rub the fabrics by hand so they're soft and easier to weave.
The Kuba embroider the cloth by pulling raffia fibers through it — an extremely time-consuming and delicate craft. The patterns symbolize particular communities, and each design can have many meanings.
The Kuba embroider the cloth by pulling raffia fibers through it — an extremely time-consuming and delicate craft. The patterns symbolize particular communities, and each design can have many meanings.
Durability. Quality raffia upholstery fabric should score at least 40,000 on the Martindale Rub Test, which predicts wearability; fabric samples are rubbed using worsted wool cloth in a figure-8 motion. The score indicates the number of rubs that the fabric can take before it wears and changes in appearance from holes, pilling etc.
Tip: Raffia wallpaper that has been bonded to a fabric backing and treated with a stain repellent is easier to install and care for.
Tip: Raffia wallpaper that has been bonded to a fabric backing and treated with a stain repellent is easier to install and care for.
Authentic raffia fabric isn't the best bet in wet areas. If water sits on it for long periods of time, it will mold. If you'd like to use raffia in your bathroom or kitchen, install it in a spot that sees little water — such as on cabinet fronts or upper cabinetry.
Modern uses. Dyed raffia is often used in modern home accessories. Woven placemats, baskets and trays all benefit from the material's durability and transitional style.
Tip: If having the authentic, natural product is important to you, check your raffia labels to make sure it's not made from other materials. Faux raffia is often made from cellulose pulp.
Tip: If having the authentic, natural product is important to you, check your raffia labels to make sure it's not made from other materials. Faux raffia is often made from cellulose pulp.
If you need to shade your windows but don't want to lose all of your natural light, try raffia blinds; they add instant warmth and character to any room, creating a gentle, dappled lighting effect.
Tip: In a more traditional setting, frame your raffia blinds with curtains in a contrasting color to soften the look.
Tip: In a more traditional setting, frame your raffia blinds with curtains in a contrasting color to soften the look.
Related Stories
Organizing
How to Create a Joyful, Clutter-Free Home Office
Follow these steps to get rid of the paper piles and make room for beauty and better organization
Full Story
Remodeling Guides
15 Ways to Create Separation in an Open Floor Plan
By tidgboutique
Use these pro tips to minimize noise, delineate space and establish personal boundaries in an open layout
Full Story
White
Design Pros Share 10 Favorite Creamy White Paints
By Becky Harris
These off-white color choices include versatile tones, warming hues and pleasingly soft shades
Full Story
Entryways
4 Designer Tips for a Fashionable Entry
By tidgboutique
A pro shows how adding color, statement pieces and more to a foyer can set the right tone for the rest of the home
Full Story
Most Popular
7 Major Decorating Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
By tidgboutique
Gain confidence to start your interior design project with this advice from a professional designer
Full Story
Living Rooms
4 Must-Have Features for a Small Living Room
By tidgboutique
A designer shares important ways to live large in a tight space and make it look stylish
Full Story
Most Popular
7 Common Decorating Mistakes to Avoid
Pros share solutions to design problems they often find in people’s living spaces
Full Story
Most Popular
How to Decorate a Living Room
By tidgboutique
A designer offers tips for creating a comfortable space that reflects your style
Full Story
Budget Decorating
Where to Splurge and Where to Save When Decorating
By tidgboutique
See where it makes sense to invest in durable essentials and focal pieces, and where to economize on other things
Full Story
Lighting
Pro Tips for Lighting 10 Rooms and Outdoor Areas
Get professional advice for lighting your kitchen, bathroom, living room, office, patio and more
Full Story
Thank You ,
Donna
I am using raffia for a headboard in a current project--had to purchase wallpaper and have it backed by company
would you mind sharing the resource for this particular raffia?