Coir craft is one of Kerala's oldest and most economically significant handicraft traditions, centred on Alappuzha district, often referred to as the coir capital of India. The fibre is extracted from coconut husk through a retting and beating process, then spun into yarn that is woven into mats, ropes and a wide range of household and decorative products.
Historically, Alappuzha's backwaters and abundant coconut plantations made it the natural hub for coir processing, and the industry grew into a major export sector during the colonial period. Today, coir craft continues to sustain thousands of artisan and factory workers across the district, supported by the Coir Board and cooperative societies.
How It Is Made
Coconut husks are soaked in water bodies, a process called retting, which softens the fibres over several weeks to months. The retted husk is then beaten manually or mechanically to separate the coir fibre from pith, after which the fibre is cleaned, dried and spun into yarn on the traditional ratt or spinning wheel.
- Retting softens husk fibres before extraction
- Fibre is combed and spun into yarn using a ratt (spinning wheel)
- Yarn is woven on handlooms or power looms into mats and matting
- The full cycle from husk to finished product can take several weeks
Coir products are dyed or left in their natural brown tone before being sold as household or decorative items.
Alappuzha's Coir Heritage
Coir processing in Alappuzha grew significantly in the 19th century when European traders recognised the fibre's durability for rope and matting, leading to the establishment of factories along the backwaters. The industry once employed a large share of the district's workforce and remains an important part of its identity.
- Alappuzha is historically known as the coir capital of Kerala
- The Coir Board, headquartered in Kochi, regulates and promotes the industry
- Coirfed, the state coir marketing federation, supports cooperative producers
Modern designers have expanded coir's use into geotextiles, décor and eco-friendly packaging, keeping the traditional fibre relevant.
Where to See and Buy Coir Craft
Visitors can see coir being processed and woven in villages around Alappuzha, where several factories and cooperatives allow viewing of the spinning and weaving process. Coir Board showrooms and Coirfed outlets across Kerala sell finished products at fair, fixed prices.
- Genuine coir products have a coarse natural texture and light brown colour unless dyed
- Cooperative and Coir Board outlets typically offer better sourcing transparency than roadside stalls
- Larger items like mattresses or mats are best bought locally due to shipping bulk
Traveller Tips
- Buy from Coir Board or Coirfed outlets for quality-assured, fairly priced products
- Visiting a coir village near Alappuzha lets you see the retting and spinning process firsthand
- Coir items are bulky, so plan for shipping or check airline baggage limits before buying large mats
- Purchasing directly from cooperatives helps support the livelihoods of coir workers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is coir made from?
Coir is a natural fibre extracted from the husk of coconuts through soaking and beating.
Why is Alappuzha called the coir capital?
Alappuzha has historically been the centre of Kerala's coir processing and export industry since the 19th century.
What products are made from coir?
Mats, ropes, mattresses, bags, doormats and various decorative handicrafts are commonly made from coir.
Where can I buy genuine coir products?
Coir Board showrooms, Coirfed outlets and cooperative factories in Alappuzha are reliable sources.
Translate