The Materials Behind Every Shaba Bag

Every Shaba bag carries more than just your essentials it carries a story. A story of the earth, of skilled hands, of time-honored traditions meeting modern design. At Shaba, we believe the beauty of each piece lies not only in its craftsmanship but also in the materials we choose.

🌱 The Soul of Our Bags: Organic Sisal

Our journey begins in the fields of rural Kenya, where organic sisal thrives under the warm sun. Sisal, a hardy and sustainable fiber, has been used for centuries in weaving. What makes it special? It’s biodegradable, renewable, and incredibly durable—qualities that ensure your bag will last while leaving a light footprint on the planet.

We work closely with smallholder farmers who grow and harvest sisal by hand. The fibers are carefully extracted, sun-dried, and prepared for weaving. Each thread tells a story of resilience, tradition, and care for the land.

🎨 Natural Dyes & Contemporary Colors

Nature inspires our palette. Some of our bags embrace the raw beauty of sisal’s natural beige, while others are transformed with dyes that bring out rich, earthy, or bold tones. This blend of tradition and innovation gives every collection a unique personality—whether it’s a deep mustard Wahura Bucket Bag or a sleek black Twende Sling.

🧵 The Details that Matter: Leather, Beads & Brass

Beyond the weave, we add details that elevate each bag into a piece of art.

• Leather trims & straps provide strength and sophistication, making the bags versatile for both everyday wear and travel.
  
  

• Handpicked beads and accents pay homage to Kenya’s vibrant culture and storytelling heritage.
  
  

• Brass finishes bring a modern, timeless touch—subtle yet striking.
  
  

Every detail is chosen not only for style but also for durability, ensuring your Shaba bag matures beautifully with time.

🌍 More Than Materials—A Movement

By sourcing locally and working hand-in-hand with artisans, Shaba transforms raw materials into opportunities. Each bag supports rural communities, preserves traditional weaving, and champions sustainable fashion.

When you carry a Shaba bag, you’re carrying more than a design statement—you’re carrying a movement. One rooted in heritage, sustainability, and craftsmanship.