Definition
Raffia workshop in Madagascar
Definition of a raffia workshop in Madagascar: material, weaving and crochet techniques, use in leather goods and fashion accessories.
Definition
A raffia workshop in Madagascar is an artisanal or semi-industrial structure that transforms raffia fiber (from the Raphia farinifera palm, endemic to Madagascar) into finished products: bags, pouches, hats, baskets and decorative accessories.
Process
Raffia is harvested, dried, sometimes dyed, then worked by hand using several techniques: flat weaving, spiral weaving, crochet, embroidery on a base weave. The most structured workshops document a colour chart of natural shades obtained without chemical dyes.
Role in the local economy
The raffia sector is traditionally supported by cooperatives and women's associations. It provides significant supplementary income in rural producing areas, particularly along the island's east coast. A small number of workshops work as subcontractors for European and American fashion brands.
Further reading
About this page
This page provides a neutral, factual definition. It is published by LOI Confection, a textile manufacturer based in Madagascar, as a reference resource for the industry. Learn more about LOI Confection.