Banana Fabrics

Banana fruit or plantain come under genus Musca, of family Musaceae. Banana plant not only gives delicious fruits but also provides textile fibres which are the natural fibres. Banana fibre, lignocellulosic fibres are obtained from the pseudostem of the banana plant. The banana plant is a large perennial herb with leaf sheath that forms a false trunk 3-6 m (10 – 20 feet) high, surrounding with 8-12 large leaves which are up to 9 feet long and 2 feet wide. After a plant has fruited it is cut down to the ground as the banana plant can fruit only once in their lifetime.
As the fashion industry heads towards a future, where textile resources are becoming scarce, more and more companies are seeking out sustainable alternative fibres and fabrics.
Banana fabric is one of the world’s strongest natural fibres that requires no chemicals to grow or process.
The fibres itself is created step by step (spun, dyed and woven) by local communities of artisans. First, the strips of banana sheaths are boiled in alkaline solution to soften and separate them. After the fabric is woven, it is then dyed by hand with natural dyes sourced from indigo and madder roots. By using natural fibres and plant-based dyes clothing made from the banana fibre is completely biodegradable.
Banana fibres are very similar to that of bamboo fibres but differ in their fineness and spinnability. Fibres are lightweight, highly strong and have moisture absorption quality. Fibres made from banana fibres are soft, supple as well as breathable and natural sorbet. They tend to have a natural shine as compared to silk.
What’s so fascinating about banana fibre is that it can vary in weight and thickness depending on which part of banana stem is being used. Inner strands of the stalk are very fine and smooth and outer strands are thick and coarse. Because of this versatility nature of banana fibres, they can be woven into ropes, mats handbags and even paper. Their versatility and durability ensure the longevity and usefulness of the garment.
Banana fibres thus offer a sustainable alternative to those looking for a unique & eco-friendly alternative. With increasing environmental awareness and the growing importance of eco-friendly fabrics, banana fibres have also been recognised for all its good qualities and now its applications are increasing in other fields too such as apparel garments and home furniture.