5 raffia DIYs to keep you busy on cold days at home

When the temperatures drop and the weather turns greyer, we’re often looking for simple, comforting activities to do at home. How about taking the opportunity to create some pretty decorative objects using raffia ? This natural, light and resistant material is very popular in decoration for its raw, authentic and warm appearance.

Making things yourself not only allows you to personalise your home, but also to spend quality time alone or with your family. Here are 5 easy and effective DIY ideas to make with raffia, ideal for transforming your home while enjoying some creative time.

1. The raffia trivet :
practical and decorative

The cup mat is a simple but very useful project. To make it, start by braiding or winding several strands of raffia into a spiral. Use hot glue or strong thread to secure the shape as you go. You can play with the natural colours of the raffia or even add a few dyed strands for a more modern look.

➡ Objective : Protect your furniture from stains while adding an artisanal touch to your tea or coffee break.
➡ Difficulty : Very easy, ideal for beginners.

2. The raffia planter :
simple, trendy and natural

Take a glass jar, yoghurt pot or tin can. Clean it, then wrap raffia around it by gluing or knotting it. You can leave a few fringes sticking out or incorporate beads for a more decorative effect. This type of pot cover is perfect for succulents, dried flowers or small cacti.

➡ Objective: Give a second life to simple objects while adding style to your plants.
➡ Difficulty: Easy, accessible to all.

3. A personalised raffia photo frame :
a keepsake that reflects your image

Take a basic frame (wood, plastic or thick cardboard) and cover the edges with strands of raffia. You can glue them in a straight line, braid them or even create a woven pattern. The result is original and very warm. This project allows you to show off your favourite photos while decorating your walls or shelves.

➡ Objective : To create a unique and emotional wall decoration.
➡ Difficulty : Medium, depending on the motif chosen.

4. A raffia wall hanging: personalise your walls

A wooden stick (or even a clean, sanded branch), a few strands of raffia of different lengths, and you’re done! Tie the strands together by knotting them to the stick, let them fall naturally or braid some of them. You can also add natural elements (shells, pearls, dried leaves) to enrich the hanging.

➡ Objective : Fill an empty wall with a handmade, natural touch.
➡ Difficulty : Medium to advanced depending on style.

5. A decorative raffia star :
light and warm

Cut a star out of cardboard or shape one with wire. Then wrap some raffia around it until the structure is well covered. This decoration can be hung from a window, hung from a door handle, or incorporated into a wall hanging. It’s also a great idea for a natural version of a festive decoration.

➡ Objective : To create an original, lightweight decorative element.
➡ Difficulty : Easy, adaptable depending on the support.

Love these ideas but don’t have the time to make them ?

No worries, the BLESSED brand, based in Antananarivo, Madagascar, can make these objects for you, according to your preferences and needs. Each creation is handmade, with care, by local artisans.

The name BLESSED reflects a simple but strong philosophy : “Your trust allows us to grow. Our well-cared-for items will be a blessing to you.”

Because of the skilled craftsmanship, they can make personalized raffia items for you: coasters, wall hangings, planters, picture frames, etc. You have a specific idea ? They can turn it into reality. Are you unsure ? They will be happy to advise you. The company also works in partnership with local artisans and is developing international relationships, enabling it to guarantee the quality, originality and durability of each creation.