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So, exactly what is Raffia anyway?

Raffia is a fiber derived from the leaves (fronds) of the Raffia Palm in
far off Madagascar.  Madagascar natives go into the bush to cut the palm fronds and carry them back to their villages.  After peeling the fibers from the stem of the fronds, they are dried in the sun and sold to Croppers who travel from village to village buying the raffia from  the natives.  The Cropper then sorts the raffia as to length, color and quality and takes it to a port where it is baled and readied for shipment. 

Raffia is an extremely versatile fiber that can be crafted into such things as dolls, hats, belts and shoes, not to mention an almost endless number of handicraft and decorative projects.

Forget-Me-Not Raffia is the finest raffia produced in Madagascar. Dyed in over 20 colors, packaged in North America and available in either Treated or Untreated. Treated raffia has been treated in a flame retardant and a moisturizer to increase its safety and ease of use. It has a damp, waxy feel. Untreated raffia has a natural "straw like" feel. All colors are available in both qualities and a wide variety of packaging options or bulk.

Curly raffia comes in tightly twisted braids that when opened leave the fibers full bodied and very curly. Very popular for dolls hair, decorative gift packages and floral decorations. Available in a select range of colors. We have distributors in all 50 states.

Both qualities are always in stock and we are able to supply special qualities upon request.

Click on the images below to see a larger image and description.

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Baled Raffia

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Raffia Hanks

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Extra Fancy

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Curly Raffia

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Untreated

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Treated

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Color Card

The Joseph M. Stern Company ~ 1968 East 66th Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44103

Phone: (216) 391-2525   Fax: (216) 361-7400

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Copyright 1999 by Joseph M. Stern Company - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

   This page was last updated:   Tuesday, June 10, 2003