10 Raffia Crochet Patterns
The following article may contain affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase from these links, I may receive affiliate commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend yarns which I believe are sustainable and suitable for the patterns.
If you’re trying to transition your crochet hobby into a more eco friendly one then you may have come across Raffia yarn. Raffia is a plant based, ribbon-y yarn that is strong, durable and comes in a variety of colours.
It is suitable for many eco crochet patterns and it is one of my favourite sustainable yarns to create with.
Before we get to the list of crochet patterns, let’s take a closer look at what Raffia yarn is actually made from and where we can buy it.
What is Raffia Yarn Made From?
Raffia yarn is 100% plant based. It is made from the long, young leaves of the raffia palm tree which grows in tropical climates, mainly in Madagascar, Asia and some other areas of Africa.
Is it a Sustainable Fibre?
Raffia itself comes from a renewable resource, from trees. But as we know, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s sustainable. How can we be sure that we are supporting sustainable harvesting practices?
The authorities in Madagascar have imposed rules on harvesting and planting in order to make sure that the trees are not exploited, have time to regenerate and to keep the industry sustainable and manageable.
The harvest in Madagascar usually takes place after an initial 6 years of growing. Young leaves are then harvested during 6 months of the year, leaving the remaining 6 months for the tree to regenerate. There is also a rule in place which states that 200 young raffia plants must be planted for every ton harvested.
When buying Raffia yarn make sure to look out for accreditations like FSC to ensure you are supporting sustainably managed plantations of raffia palm. Check my article on sustainable yarns to learn about more accreditations.
Where to Buy Raffia Yarn
My favourite Raffia Yarn to buy is Wool and the Gang Ra-Ra Raffia which can be bought from both Love Crafts and WATG themselves. This yarn is REACH and FSC certified making sure that the yarn comes from sustainable harvesting and there are no harmful chemicals used in the process.
LoveCrafts - Wool and the Gang Ra-Ra Raffia
$21.79 for 273 yards
Wool and the Gang - Ra-Ra Raffia
$23.00 for 273 yards
10 Crochet Patterns for Raffia Yarn
Easy Raffia Crochet Clutch Pattern - Crochet Club
An absolutely gorgeous raffia crochet pattern that suits this yarn perfectly. An easy crochet clutch pattern that makes an elegant bag for taking to a wedding or an evening event.
Raffia Flexible Vase - Plexto
This advanced vase crochet pattern is just stunning. I love how the brown raffia yarn blends into the cream by using the tapestry technique. The pattern includes two different sized vases to suit your needs.
Breeze Belt Crochet Pattern - Victoria Bee Designs
Make yourself a sustainable and comfortable summer belt. This pattern includes 9 different sizes and due to the raffia yarn the belt will have a slight, natural stretch to it. Just perfect!
Raffia Coasters / Placemats - Sofie White Designs
Create a set of raffia coasters / placemats for a special occasion or simply to keep your plates from scratching your table. This beginner friendly pattern will show you how to make 6 placemats with 2 skeins of raffia yarn.
Raffia Flower Pot Sleeve - Fluffy Stitches
An easy crochet pattern to make a raffia flower pot sleeve to suit your home decor. You’ll need two skeins of yarn, choose any colours you like and some wire to get started.
Avlaki Drawstring Bag - Handy Little Me
A beginner friendly drawstring bag crochet pattern that is ideal for strolling along the beach and keeping your essentials close. The free version is available on the Handy Little Me blog or get the inexpensive downloadable PDF in their shop.
Ukrainian Heart Crochet Pattern - Anna Kuznietsova
Say no to war by making these cute Ukrainian hearts in blue and yellow. The pattern includes step by step written instructions as well as a video tutorial.
Raffia Christmas Ornaments - Plexto
A really cute crochet pattern for two sizes of Christmas baubles, one large and one small. The pattern includes written instructions, charts and photos to help you along.
Luna Belt Bag Crochet Pattern - Life is Cozy
The cutest little belt bag that would be great for travelling or running errands. The pattern includes detailed written instructions, schematics, and links to video tutorials, plus instructions on how to make a raffia belt and handle.
Riviera Bag Crochet Pattern - Paulastrickt
A summery bag that is structured in style and suitable for taking to the market, the beach or out shopping. The raffia yarn and the stitches used make this bag both robust and stable.
More Crochet Pattern Round Ups
Sources
[1] - The Raffia Connection
