toquilla

Toquilla refers to the paja toquilla, the fiber obtained from the leaf of the palm Carludovica palmata, native to tropical South America. This straw is lightweight, flexible, and highly joinable, making it ideal for weaving fine, durable hats and other woven items. The term toquilla is often used to designate both the straw itself and the hats woven from it.

Panama hats are widely known as such even though most are made in Ecuador from toquilla straw. The name originated from the hats’ export through Panama during the 19th and early 20th centuries, when they gained international attention along with the construction of the Panama Canal. The association was reinforced by prominent displays and shipments through the region, including appearances in the United States and Europe.

Weaving toquilla hats is a handcraft traditionally performed by artisans in Ecuador, especially along the coastal and Andean foothill regions. Hats are built on blocks to form the crown and brim, using a range of weave densities and patterns. Quality is often described by the fineness of the weave, with terms such as fino (fine) and superfino (superfine). The finest hats may use tightly packed wefts per inch and can take weeks to complete, sometimes involving a single continuous thread that creates a smooth, almost seamless surface.

Today, toquilla hats remain a significant traditional product of Ecuadorian craft, valued for their light weight, temperature regulation, and distinctive appearance. They continue to be produced for local use and global markets, maintaining a balance between age-old techniques and contemporary demand.