Marlow Makers | Behind our Raffia

Our Raffia Collection is a celebration of extraordinary craftsmanship and the rich artisanal legacy of Madagascar. Each piece is meticulously handwoven by skilled artisans, embodying generations of tradition and expertise. One-of-a-kind creations, where heritage, skill, and elegance intertwine.

Raffia is a natural fibre derived from the leaves of the raffia palm that are sustainably harvested without harming the plant. The fibres are dried in the sun, changing from green to a beautiful, natural sand tone, then hand-dyed with natural, plant-based dyes. Unlike straw, raffia’s natural resin gives it strength, flexibility, and lasting beauty.

In Madagascar, raffia weaving and crocheting are time-honoured crafts, with each piece handmade by local artisans. The artisans use techniques passed down through generations, such as intricate braiding, delicate crocheting, and hand-sewn detailing that bring the final form to life. The result is heritage craftsmanship reimagined in contemporary designs.

Keep dry, spot clean with warm water if needed and dry flat. Avoid moisture as much as possible. If you need to reshape, you can lightly mist or steam (30cm away), shape and leave flat to dry. Avoid over-steaming.

Handwoven and hand-dyed in Madagascar from 100% raffia, each piece is truly one of a kind. Lightweight and breathable, our hats feature an adjustable cotton twill tie and roll easily into your bag for life on the go. Our raffia bags suit every summer occasion, the Santorini and Tulum for a daily carry-all, and the Milano Mini for a chic, event-ready finish.