Straw Articles

Straw Mats

November 10, 2008 – 8:21 am, posted by admin

Going to the beach?  Besides sunscreen, the most important item on your list should be a straw mat.  Straw mats are incredible inventions, yet few people own them.  Think about all the times you've stepped onto the hot sand only to feel the skin on the bottom of your feet burn instantly.  With a mat, you can set it down, insulate your skin from the hot sand, and as the mat is waterproof and easily shakes out after you've used it, you needn't worry about having to wash it off as soon as you return home. Straw beach pads have gained popularity over the years.  One side is cushioned with a soft material while the other is straw and prevents sand and moisture from getting into your most personal areas.  Sand in unusual places cannot only cause discomfort, but it can also lead to infection.  You can prevent this embarrassing ...

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Straw Handbags

June 8, 2008 – 9:16 am, posted by admin

Straw handbags are all the rage. Even Cameron Diaz has been seen out and about with her Gucci Positano in tow. Actress Cameron Diaz (There's Something About Mary, Charlie's Angels, Shrek, etc.) Gold chain links help firmly attach the leather straps to this oversized purse that leaves you with plenty of room for your cell phone, wallet, sunglasses and much more. The actual size of the purse, 15 ½ inches long and 12 inches high, offers ample space for all of your favorite necessities. One of the best things about the Gucci Positano is that it contains a silk scarf woven through the top of the handbag. For this very reason, the handbag, though crafted from straw, offers a designer look that purse lovers crave. Inside the purse is lined and has a cell phone pocket so that you can't possibly lose your cell phone ...

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Straw Varieties

April 13, 2008 – 8:43 pm, posted by StrawFashion

There are dozens of straws that can be woven into the sheets used to handcraft straw hats, straw totes, handbags, beach mats and more. The type of straw you use often dictates what item is going to be created. Understanding the different straws can help you choose a straw item that will provide you with years of use. Abaca: Abaca is taken from Manila Hemp and is common to the Philippines. It is not often used for accessories. You'll find it used to make the ropes found on boats and ships. Buntal: Grown mainly in the Philippines, Buntal must be lacquered in order to hold its shape for an extended period of time. Because Buntal is beautifully colored, almost a golden color, it is used in more expensive hats and purses. Jute: Widely used to make netting, totes, purses, chair seats and hats, Jute is ...

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Straw Beachwear

April 5, 2008 – 10:25 pm, posted by StrawFashion

Straw beachwear is not only meant to keep you cool, but it is also meant to protect you from the damaging UVA and UVB rays emitted by the sun. These rays are not only responsible for drying out your skin causing wrinkles, but too much exposure can also lead to skin cancer. Before heading to your local beach, you will want to have a few items on hand. While sunscreen is always important, you should invest in a straw mat. This lightweight mat forms an insulated, waterproof barrier between the hot or wet sand and your body. Straw mats come in many sizes, often up to six by eight feet making it large enough for a whole family to relax on. Most straw mats are priced at well under $50. Their low price makes them an item you must have. When you are ...

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Straw Hats

March 29, 2008 – 6:23 pm, posted by StrawFashion

With the increased popularity in straw hats, many people wonder exactly how straw hats are made. Most straws must be hand-woven, so women throughout the world make the hats. Oddly enough, for all the work that they invest, the hats are still incredibly inexpensive to purchase. It proves that some undeveloped countries are willing to do whatever it takes to bring in whatever money possible. Once straw has been harvested, it is cut into specific widths and lengths. The straw is then washed to remove any dirt, bacteria and other impurities. Some straw makers will bleach the straw as an additional precaution. If the straw is to be colored, the dying process is the next step. Following this, workers spread the straw out in the sun to thoroughly dry. Straw cannot be dried under heaters because if they dry out too fast it can cause them to become brittle. After the straw ...

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