SAVOIR-FAIRE
L-R: raffia trees in Madagascar, the original Felana bag, women at La maison du Raphia
THE RAFFIA
Raffia has always been a fundamental component of our workshop’s production process. Raffia fiber is sourced from the segments of the leaves of the Raphia Farinifera palm, which is commonly referred to as the Raffia Palm. While several species of raffia palm can be found in various regions across South East Asia, South Africa, and Central America, the most exceptional quality raffia is found in the coastal valleys of Madagascar. This region is renowned for its unparalleled expertise in cultivating raffia, making it an ideal location for our atelier to source this raw material.
SUPPLY CHAIN
” We understand how important transparency is in today’s world and we believe it’s not only an ethical imperative but also a key driver of sustainability and accountability.”
– Lalie R., Managing Director
At La Maison du Raphia, we are committed to creating a sustainable supply chain for our products.
We work closely with local farmers to source raffia from sustainably managed forests. Through our farmer programs, we work with local farmers to promote sustainable farming practices, such as planting native trees to replenish the resources used during the production process. By doing so, we can help ensure the long-term viability of raffia palm tree cultivation in the region, while also promoting sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and local communities.
In addition, the conservation of raffia palm trees is strongly supported by law in Madagascar, which limits the harvest from June to October each year to allow the branches to grow back before the next season.
Besides, raffia palm trees need to be pruned regularly to promote healthy growth and ensure a high-quality yield. Therefore, harvesting raffia is not only eco-friendly but also necessary for the continued vitality of the plant. Furthermore, we are constantly taking steps to improve our environmental and ethical processes, so our workshop can be as sustainable as possible.
CRAFTING PROCESS
SORTING RAFFIA
After being harvested, the leaves are carefully stripped and the strands are left to bask in the sun to dry. As the strands dry, they undergo a subtle metamorphosis, shrinking in size and transforming from a verdant green to an alluring, earthy sand hue.
Once dried to perfection, the raffia is transported to our Antananarivo workshop, where skilled artisans meticulously sort and grade the fibers based on texture, length, and width. This manual process ensures that only the highest quality raffia is selected, with utmost care and consideration for the environment.
DYEING RAFFIA
Once the raffia has been meticulously sorted, it undergoes a thorough washing and flattening process before being hand-dyed over an open flame. Each dye is carefully mixed by hand, resulting in a slight variation in color that renders every item one-of-a-kind.
As part of our strong commitment to sustainable practices, we are using OEKO-TEX certified pigments to dye raffia to ensure that materials we used are free from harmful substances such as cadmium, arsenic, lead and other heavy metals reducing the potential negative impact of the dyeing process on the environment, the workers involved and our customers.
TRADITIONAL WEAVING TECHNIQUES
Each item from La Maison du Raphia is meticulously crafted with utmost care and attention by our team of highly skilled artisans, employing time-honored craftsmanship and utilizing the finest hand-split raffia. The secret to achieving an even finish for the final piece lies in maintaining a consistent weight and thickness throughout the crafting process. This attention to detail ensures that every piece is of the highest quality and beauty.
« Our highly skilled artisans turn your designs into exquisite showcases of craftsmanship, bringing their expertise and creativity to every piece they create ».
– Henri Randimbison, Production Manager
With such skill and commitment, our artisans masterfully create raffia accessories using a variety of techniques, including crochet, classic braid, wide braid, and macramé. Through their extensive training, deep knowledge, and continuous innovation, we are able to consistently produce beautiful and sustainably-minded accessories each season.
