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MAKEWORKS
Papers/Pineapple Leaf Paper
Plant FiberModerateSafety: Low Risk

Pineapple Leaf Paper

The crown of every pineapple is industrial-strength fiber.

Texture
Strong, silky-smooth
Yield
≈ 6 sheets per pineapple top

Use the long fibers from pineapple leaves the same way as banana stems.

  • ▸Pineapple leaves are the source of piña cloth in the Philippines.
  • ▸Sheets come out lustrous and very strong.
  • ▸All the leftover after the fruit is harvested — pure waste turned into paper.

Steps

  1. 01

    Strip leaves into ribbons; scrape off the green flesh with a dull knife to expose fiber.

  2. 02

    Cook 3 hours in washing-soda water.

  3. 03

    Rinse and beat fibers on a board with a mallet.

  4. 04

    Blend briefly — long fibers tangle in blenders.

  5. 05

    Pull sheets, press hard, dry under weight.

Materials
4
  • — Pineapple tops / leaves
  • — Washing soda
  • — Mallet
  • — Blender + mould & deckle

Safety

Low Risk

Mostly hand tools and inert materials. Standard studio hygiene applies.

Quick checklist
  • ☐Work in a ventilated area; keep food and drink out of the studio
  • ☐Read each material's safety data sheet (SDS) before starting
  • ☐Have water, soap, and a first-aid kit accessible

Heuristic guidance derived from listed materials. Always consult each material's safety data sheet (SDS) and a qualified instructor before attempting.

Notes

Same fiber as Filipino piña cloth. Famously strong; use for book covers and envelopes.