How to Choose the Right Raffia for Basket Weaving
Whether you're making your first coiled basket or adding to a growing collection of fibre art, choosing the right raffia makes all the difference. Here's what to look for.
Natural vs Hand-Dyed Raffia
Natural raffia is the classic choice — earthy, versatile, and beautiful in its raw form. It's ideal for beginners and works well for neutral-toned baskets, and traditional weaving styles.
Hand-dyed raffia opens up a world of colour. At Raffia & Twine, our hand-dyed range is crafted in small batches using premium natural fibres, giving you rich, consistent colour with the same workability as natural raffia. Popular shades like Cinnamon, Ochre, and Olive Green complement earthy, nature-inspired palettes, while Flamingo Pink and Chilli Red make a bold statement.
How Much Do You Need?
For a standard coiled basket, a 50g bundle is a great starting point. For larger projects or if you're working with multiple colours, our 1kg Natural Raffia Hank offers excellent value and ensures you won't run short mid-project.
Tips for Working with Raffia
- Lightly dampen raffia before working with it to improve flexibility and reduce splitting.
- Store unused raffia in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve colour.
- Mix natural and hand-dyed raffia in the same project for beautiful tonal contrast.
Ready to Start Weaving?
Browse our full range of natural and hand-dyed raffia, basket making kits, and craft supplies — all available online with fast shipping across Australia.
