What is Raffia? A Natural Essential for Basket Weaving

If you’ve ever admired a finely coiled or woven basket, there’s a good chance it was made from Raffia. Raffia is a natural bast fibre stripped from the fronds of the raffia palm, and is strong, pliable, and has a tactile finish. Unlike synthetic cordage, raffia moves with your hands, making it a great material basket making.

Why Choose Raffia for Basket Making & Basket Weaving?

In basket making and basket weaving, fibre quality matters. Raffia is soft enough to thread easily through bases, yet robust enough to tension tightly without splitting. It has a natural matte texture which gives grip on each coil or stitch, which means neater finishes and fewer slips. For coiling, wrapping, or twining, raffia offers just the right balance of give and durability. Natural raffia fibres also accept dye beautifully, allowing makers to incorporate pattern work and colour-blocking into their projects.

What Raffia Supplies do I need for Basketry?

When assembling your basket weaving supplies, raffia is a non-negotiable. Most makers work with bundles of natural raffia hanks or pre-dyed skeins. A sturdy weaving needle and a firm base (cane, wire, or reed) are common pairings. Many artisans buy raffia in bulk to ensure fibre consistency across larger pieces, as variations in quality can affect tension and finish.

Where to Buy Raffia

At Raffia and Twine, we understand that not all raffia is equal. Our fibres are:

• Premium, sustainably sourced raffia chosen for strength and consistency.
• 100% natural and biodegradable, suited to eco-conscious makers.
• Supple, strong, and easy to manipulate, whether you’re coiling, plaiting, or wrapping.

Our raffia is selected for both beginner and advanced makers. It's strong enough to withstand tight weaving, yet flexible enough to shape smoothly. If you’re looking to elevate your basketry practice, our high-quality raffia supplies give you the control and finish that generic fibres can’t.