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Research Unit

Raffia Bag

Raffia Bag

R19,999
R19,999
Sale Sold out
Taxes included. Shipping calculated at checkout.

Research Unit Raffia Bag, this tote is handwoven from natural raffia fiber into a dense, structured weave. Sturdy, textural, and unmistakably handmade. The RESEARCH UNIT wordmark is embroidered directly into the weave rather than printed on, sitting front and center on the body of the bag. Made in Madagascar, home to the artisan raffia workshops behind many of the world's most sought-after woven accessories

A one-of-one piece that won't be repeated. Natural variation in tone, weave tension, and shape is part of what makes each one genuinely singular, not a flaw to be smoothed out.

It comes with a matching Research Unit pouch in vegetable tanned leather, which attaches via a removable strap. Locally made in Cape Town.

 

  • Handwoven raffia, made by artisans in Madagascar
  • One-of-one piece. Natural variation in tone and weave is expected and part of the character
  • RESEARCH UNIT SOUTH AFRICA branding, hand-embroidered into the weave
  • Structured tote silhouette with dual top handles.
  • Includes a removable vegetable tanned leather pouch on a detachable strap
  • Pouch can be worn separately or as part pf the bag.

 

Shipping Time and Returns

Delivery in South Africa

  • Free delivery for all orders above R1,500.
  • Orders are dispatched within 1-3 working days and delivered 1–3 working days after dispatch.
  • Delivered to your door by courier. You’ll receive tracking details once your order has been collected.
  • Need it sooner? Email us at info@researchunit.co.za and we’ll do our best to help.

 

International delivery

  • We currently deliver worldwide.
  • You’ll receive tracking details once your order has been collected.
  • Shipping costs are shown at checkout before you pay.
  • Orders are dispatched within 1-3 working days and delivered within 10–14 working days after dispatch.
  • Duties and import taxes: Duties and taxes are calculated at checkout, so there’s nothing extra to pay on delivery. However, if duties and taxes are not included you may be charged by your country of entry. These charges are out of our control and are destination specific.
  • International orders can’t be returned or exchanged. If you’re unsure about sizing, email us before ordering and we’ll help at info@researchunit.co.za

 

Size Conversion Chart

Fabric Properties

TECHNICAL FABRIC
Engineered for everyday wear and durability, made from synthetic fibres or a blend of synthetic and natural fibres.
- Anti-bacterial
- Wash and wear, no ironing needed
- Quick drying
- Breathable
- Resistant to the elements and abrasion
- Chosen with environmental impact in mind

COTTON POPLIN
A lightweight, durable cotton with a tight weave. Soft and crisp to the touch, and creases less than many other cottons.
- Thin and breathable
- Absorbs moisture and dries quickly
- Doesn't hold odours
- Hypoallergenic, so it's good for sensitive skin
- Strong, smooth and not clingy
- Can be sheer or opaque, depending on thickness

SOFT SATIN
Woven from long filament fibres, which makes it smoother and stronger than many plain weave fabrics.
- Durable
- Wrinkle-resistant
- Breathable

DENIM
Japanese selvedge denim, woven by skilled artisans on vintage looms that are 60 to 80 years old. Its narrow width and tight weave make each piece unique, and the edges are finished with a signature red thread.
- Tight, high-quality weave
- Clean finished selvedge edges
- Moulds to your body over time for a personal fit

General Care Guide

  • TECHNICAL FABRIC (Polyamide) | Technical garments can be machine washed to a maximum of 30°C. We recommend a cold wash with a short spin, or drip dry. You can also gently hand wash your item; rinse thoroughly and then drip dry on the washing line.
  • COTTON POPLIN | Wash at 30°C using non-bio liquid, and wash the fabric before use as it is likely to shrink. Iron using the appropriate setting for cotton on your iron. Dry naturally or tumble dry on a low setting.
  • COTTON LINEN BLEND | Cold wash using non-bio liquid, and wash the fabric before use as it is likely to shrink. Iron using the appropriate setting for cotton on your iron. Dry naturally or tumble dry on a low setting.
  • COTTON SINGLE KNIT JERSEY (T-SHIRTS) | Single jersey knit / brushed fleece can be hand washed or machine washed at 30°C. Hand washing is always the best and safest method for jersey. For machine washing, turn the item inside out and place it in a mesh washing bag. Lay the item flat in its natural shape on a drying rack, hang to dry, or tumble dry on a low setting.
  • 100% SILK AND SILK BLEND | Dry clean only is recommended, as silk has a tendency to shrink and become hard. Iron using the appropriate setting for silk on your iron. Dry naturally. No tumble drying.
  • SOFT SATIN | Cold wash or dry clean (recommended) using non-bio liquid, and wash the fabric before use. Iron using the appropriate setting for silk on your iron. Dry naturally. No tumble drying.
  • LEATHER | Can be polished with a neutral leather cream or wax to maintain the colour and prevent it from drying out.
  • WOOL AND WOOL BLEND | Cold wash only. Turn wool clothes inside out and wash on the delicate cycle (or the wool or hand wash cycle, if your washer has these settings). Use cold water and a mild liquid detergent, and add an extra rinse to the wash cycle. To avoid shrinking, don't put wool clothing in the dryer. No tumble drying and no warm water.
  • COTTON TWILL | For best care, we recommend a cold gentle machine wash with like colours at 40°C using a quality laundry liquid or powder. Wash inside out to protect the print. Do not soak, wring, rub, bleach or tumble dry. Dry flat or on a hanger. Warm iron on the reverse side.
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