BANANA SILK - The most sustainable handloom sari

Banana pith sarees or Vazhainaar pattu are made from Banana fibres. These are hand-woven sarees woven by weavers in the southern state of Tamil nadu. They have silk like look along with their own sheer and grace.

 

Banana silk and cotton blend

 

Process of making Banana silk

The first step in the weaving process is the creation of yarn. The yarn is created from Banana fibers which are extracted from Banana stems. The process involved in the extraction of banana fibers is intensive and time-consuming.

The sarees are then woven using dyed yarn. These sarees usher in a minimalistic look with thread-woven motifs but the elegance lies in the feel and appearance of the fabric. These sarees are available in unique colors. In most banana silk sarees, banana fibers make up the wrap of the fabric and silk makes up the weft.

 

Attributes of banana fiber

• The inner layer is soft like silk

• The outer layer is rough like burlap or cotton

• The silky interior fiber is very delicate

• The fabric is often more expensive to produce than silk

• Since Banana is a plant fiber produced naturally, they are 100% organic, bio-degradable, durable and sustainable

 

How is the banana fabric used?

Banana fibers are used for a variety of different purposes ranging from making quality paper cards to textiles. There is a demand for high quality fabrics made from these fibers. The blend of banana fibers with silk gives the fabric a unique look and feel; combining the luster and elegance of silk with the texture and durability of the banana fibers.

 

How does banana fabric impact the environment?

 

Banana fiber production has a negligible impact on the environment. Even among the natural fibers, the banana fabric is in a special category in terms of sustainability. That’s because this fabric is derived from what would otherwise be a waste product; banana peels are discarded anyway when banana fruit is used, so why not turn them into clothing?

If done properly, banana fabric production can be harmonious with the environment. We’re sure the global trend toward sustainability will gradually uplift banana fiber to its rightful place in the natural fabric pantheon.

With rising awareness of slow fashion, sustainability and eco-friendly processing, natural fibers are gaining importance. The most optimal choice for you will be the one that will allow you to waste less, purchase fewer, and wear your items for longer. Natural fibers comes to your rescue. They are known for their biodegradability, renewability, lightweight and better biochemical and strength properties.

 

Parisera brings to tastefully crafted banana silk sarees from our new brand 'sutra'. You can check them out here.