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I’m so excited to share that I’ve written my very first book, Raffia Embroidery, and it’s set to be published by Search Press in February 2026!
This book is a celebration of colour, creativity, and culture all inspired by my Caribbean heritage and love for raffia embroidery. Inside, you’ll find 10 original raffia embroidery projects, all with step-by-step guidance, that you can make to bring the warmth of the Caribbean to your own home.
What is Raffia Embroidery?
Raffia embroidery is a type of decorative needlework, like regular embroidery, but using raffia instead of traditional embroidery threads like cotton.
I developed my own raffia embroidery technique whilst designing my graduate collection at university, inspired by the traditional straw crafts of the Caribbean. The technique that I use uses a woven natural raffia base and embroiders into this with paper or synthetic raffia to create bright and bold patterns and designs.
Raffia is a natural fibre made from the leaves of the raffia palm tree. It is lightweight but strong and has a beautiful texture. You can learn more about raffia in this blog post.
In Raffia Embroidery, I show you how to use paper raffia yarn (raffia ribbon) to create bold and vibrant raffia embroidery designs which can then be sewn into wall hangings, bags, cushion covers and other accessories with simple sewing. Each project includes step-by-step instructions, templates, and photographs so you can follow along easily, even if you’re completely new to embroidery.
Raffia Embroidery Supplies
Inspired by Caribbean Crafts
One of my favourite parts of writing this book, aside from designing the projects, was creating the introduction where I was able to write about the Windrush Generation and what I’ve learnt about Caribbean crafts so far.
When I was growing up, I often received straw souvenirs from Jamaica and St Lucia as gifts from family members. At the time, I didn’t fully understand their significance. It was only while designing my graduate Windrush collection that I began to appreciate their beauty and meaning, and it inspired me to research further into Caribbean crafts.
Image of straw souvenirs from St Lucia
This book brings together my Caribbean heritage and my interest in these traditional Caribbean crafts, mixing them with a modern embroidery approach. The result is a collection of ten raffia embroidery projects, each one inspired by Caribbean crafts but reimagined with its own distinct, contemporary style.
Inside the book
The book is a simple and easy-to-follow. Whether you are new to embroidery, or are an experience crafter, it’s the perfect beginner’s guide to raffia embroidery. Inside the book you’ll find:
10 raffia embroidery projects, from a decorative hoop to a tote bag
Step-by-step tutorials with photographs
Guidance on materials, techniques, and finishing
Tropical designs inspired by the Caribbean
Pre-order & get a free roll of raffia yarn!
To celebrate my first book, I’m offering a special gift for early supporters of Raffia Embroidery!
If you pre-order a copy of Raffia Embroidery directly from my website by 31 January 2026 you will receive a free roll of raffia yarn so you can start creating straight away when your book is delivered. Each roll will be a surprise colour, chosen at random!
How it works
Pre-order your copy of Raffia Embroidery here by 31 January 2026.
Your copy of the book and raffia yarn will be dispatched together in mid to late February 2026, around the publication date.
You can get started on your first raffia embroidery project straight away!
This offer is only for people who pre-order their copy of the book on tiharasmith.com, and is only available while stocks last. The colour of your raffia yarn will be selected at random so you won’t be able to choose your preferred colour. See more details about pre-ordering the book on the book page.
Raffia embroidery is available from 17th February 2026
I can’t wait to see the projects you create when you get your copy! If you pre-order, please tag me or share your excitement on social media (@tiharasmith)!
Thank you for all your support 🧡
