Natural Fibers
Natural fibers tell the story of place and tradition. Whether it’s the warm weave of rattan, the coarse strength of abacá, or the refined simplicity of seagrass, each fiber is selected for both its character and renewability. Many of these materials are grown, harvested, and woven by hand using age-old techniques passed down through local communities.
No two handmade fiber pieces are exactly the same — slight irregularities in weave or tone highlight their organic origin and the care involved in their creation. It’s what gives them their charm, soul, and authenticity.
Rattan
Rattan is a natural vine (palm) fiber known for its warm tone and flexibility. Its sturdy cores are bent into frames and woven into wicker or cane seats. Rattan furniture adds an airy, tropical feel and is surprisingly resilient.
- Uses: Indoor and covered outdoor chairs, poufs, coffee tables, pendant lamps, baskets, and planter stands (its woven texture adds a relaxed, boho-chic vibe).
- Care: Dust or vacuum regularly with a soft brush. Blot spills immediately with a damp cloth – don’t rub. To prevent drying, periodically wipe rattan with a damp cloth (avoid saturation). Keep rattan pieces out of direct sun and very dry heat to avoid cracking.
Abacá (Manila Hemp)
Abacá is a robust fiber from the leaf sheaths of the banana plant (Musa textilis). After harvesting, the outer layers are scraped to extract long, glossy fibers which are then sun-dried. Abacá is one of the strongest natural fibers available and is valued for its resistance to saltwater and its durability in ropes, textiles, and home decor.
- Uses: Sturdy rugs, baskets, wallhangings, and rope accents for chairs or lighting (valued for its tensile strength and earthy texture).
- Care: Vacuum or shake out woven abacá items regularly. If spills occur, blot quickly with a damp cloth and a little mild soap; do not soak. Allow to air-dry flat. Avoid long-term exposure to moisture to prevent mold.
Sea grass
Seagrass is a tough aquatic grass dyed green, twisted into cords, and hand-woven into tight patterns. It adds a light, natural texture and ages to a softer tone.
- Uses: Woven seat covers, occasional tables, storage baskets, and flat mats (seagrass lends a coastal, handcrafted look).
- Care: Trim any loose fibers with scissors. Blot spills immediately with a damp cloth – do not rub. Dust or vacuum periodically to remove debris. Like rattan, keep seagrass furniture out of prolonged direct sunlight to preserve color.
Agel sheet (Gebang Palm)
Agel is a fiber made from the leaves of the gebang palm, harvested and woven by hand. It yields a fine, straw-like ribbon. Artisans use agel to create intricately patterned mats and baskets.
- Uses: Baskets, wall panels, placemats, and decorative bowls (offering light, natural tones and delicate texture).
- Care: Dust or vacuum with a soft brush. Trim stray fibers. For cleaning, gently wipe with a dry or barely damp cloth and let dry. Avoid soaking or harsh cleaners; store agel pieces in a dry area.
Banana fiber
Banana fiber (from plants like Musa) is similar to abacá, providing a strong, silky fiber. It’s used for eco-friendly textiles and ropes.
- Uses: Natural textiles, mats, and woven decor.
- Care: Dust or vacuum woven banana fiber; blot spills lightly with a damp cloth. Air-dry if wet. Avoid stiff handling to prevent breakage of the fibers.
Mendong
Mendong is a grayish grass fiber from Indonesia (Fimbristylis globulosa) woven into thick cloth-like mats and pillows. It feels akin to jute or seagrass.
- Uses: Floor mats, cushion covers, low seating, and basketry (bringing a traditional Indonesian character).
- Care: Vacuum or shake out to clean. Blot up spills and let air-dry. Keep endong furnishings out of very humid or very dry extremes to prevent mildew or brittleness.
Bamboo
Bamboo is technically a grass and is among the fastest-growing plants in the world, making it exceptionally renewable. It regenerates quickly without the need for replanting and can grow up to 91 cm per day. Its fibers are extracted through a mechanical or chemical process, then spun into threads or used as structural elements in design. The tensile strength of bamboo rivals that of steel, making it both strong and flexible.
- Uses: Furniture frames, bed/slat bases, shelving, and accent pieces (modern or tropical styles leverage bamboo’s sleek look).
- Care: Dust or wipe with a soft cloth. Avoid letting bamboo soak in water (it can warp). Apply a mild wood oil or wax once a year to nourish the surface. As a grass, bamboo can withstand occasional dampness but should be kept from waterlogged conditions.
Cotton (Natural fibers)
Cotton is not only soft and breathable, but also highly versatile as a Natural fibers fiber. When blended with natural materials like banana fiber, abacá, or seagrass, it adds softness and subtle texture to artisanal designs. The result is a fabric that feels natural and looks refined — often used in handmade décor.
- Uses: Woven wall hangings, cushion covers, textile panels, or mixed-fiber rugs (adds softness and detail to earthy, structured weaves).
- Care: Do not machine wash. Gently dust or vacuum with a soft brush attachment. If needed, blot carefully with a slightly damp cloth — avoid soaking. Always let the piece air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Keep out of direct sunlight and high humidity to preserve both cotton and companion fibers.