“La Paille Caraïbe” is a basketry workshop located in the Morne‑des‑Esses district of Sainte‑Marie. It has preserved the craft practices of pre‑Columbian tradition, passed down orally — a true heritage from the Kalinago (Carib) people. This Creole workshop continues to uphold Amerindian know‑how, its gestures, and its techniques.
Created in 1967, it originally brought together around fifty artisans. Today, only two or three remain, all over 70 years old. The knowledge has been passed down from father to son. The various objects are crafted using two main tropical plants: cachibou and aroman, from which the precious weaving stems are extracted. Visitors can watch demonstrations of dyeing and weaving techniques.
The site also includes an exhibition and sales area where you can see and purchase the items woven on‑site: bags, bracelets, necklaces, rings, “attrapes‑doudou,” mats, pottery, lamps and floor lamps, suitcases, sewing boxes, Caribbean baskets, bottles, vases, hats of all kinds, and more.
A perfect opportunity to take home a souvenir, with prices starting at €3.
To get there, head toward the Morne‑des‑Esses district via the D25. The workshop is located about 6 km from the town center of Sainte‑Marie.
