An emblematic palm tree of the island
Growing in the marshy regions of Madagascar, raffia is a palm tree known for having the longest leaves in the flora. Fibers are extracted from its leaves, which are then dried and dyed.
Since this plant is composed of 40% water, a long drying time is necessary to obtain a flexible, beige-colored fiber. The raffia can then be dyed in a wide variety of colors and is used as a tie, or braided. 
Extraction of raffia fiber.
It can also be woven on a traditional loom. Whatever happens, the production remains artisanal.
Dyeing & drying
The craftswomen imagine their colors, mix pigments with water, and immerse the raffia in vats to dye it.
It is then left to air dry.
It can be stored in rice bags.
A wide range of colors, from organic hues to more vibrant tones
