In the world of eco-friendly handicrafts, materials like seagrass and water hyacinth have gained popularity for their sustainability and unique textures. However, distinguishing between these two natural fibers can sometimes be challenging. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of differentiating seagrass from water hyacinth, empowering you to make choices that meet your needs.
KEY DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SEAGRASS AND WATER HYACINTH MATERIAL
1. Physical Properties
a. Seagrass:
Smaller diameter compared to water hyacinth.
Exhibit a rustic and shiny appearance with a greenish undertone, gradually transitioning to khaki or beige hues over time.
Possess a more rigid texture, which imparts a sense of rustic charm and glossiness.
Ideal for crafting items that exude a rustic aesthetic.
b. Water Hyacinth:
Feature a larger diameter when compared to seagrass.
Offer a warmer, golden-brown coloration, giving off a different visual vibe.
Have a softer surface texture than seagrass, making it pliable and flexible for weaving.
Have a color tint that gives off a warmer vibe.
Well-suited for projects where a softer, more inviting appearance is desired.
Both seagrass and water hyacinth share commendable qualities – they are naturally biodegradable, non-toxic, and durable for weaving purposes. Unlike the rigidity of bamboo and rattan, seagrass and water hyacinth offer pliability and flexibility. However, water hyacinth and seagrass are not waterproof and weather-resistant, making them suitable only for indoor use. Typically, when moisture standards are not specified by buyers, products made from seagrass and water hyacinth tend to have moisture content levels ranging from 10% to 19%.
2. Color Fastness
Both seagrass and water hyacinth can be dyed or painted on to create products with various colors, but there are notable differences in their color fastness. Water hyacinth, with its softer texture, tends to exhibit better color retention compared to seagrass fibers. Seagrass, on the other hand, has a natural protective oil surface that imparts a slight shine and smoothness. This characteristic can result in uneven color absorption and potential discoloration (fading) when dyed. Deep, dark colours frequently stick to seagrass better than lighter ones.
It is worth noting that the color adherence will be poor when painting or dyeing on the seagrass's surface. However, the production units will have a way to fix the product to produce the most durable and beautiful color. Furthermore, the paint on the seagrass surface may be more likely to be removed than the paint on the water hyacinth.
3. Material costs of Water hyacinth vs Seagrass
The price of a product code is impacted by various factors. This includes not just the raw material cost and the complexity of the weaving technique but also the regional origins of the materials.
Thanks to the favorable climatic conditions, seagrass has become widespread in the coastal provinces of Vietnam. Especially, seagrass from the Northern region, particularly in provinces like Thanh Hoa and Thai Binh, stands out for its superior quality, lower production costs, and higher production volumes.
On the other hand, water hyacinth, a widely distributed aquatic plant in Vietnam, thrives in water ponds and aquariums, primarily in the Southern regions. This plant in the Southern areas commonly delivers better quality at a lower cost.
SEAGRASS AND WATER HYACINTH APPLICATIONS
Both these two materials have been used to produce a wide range of homewares and home furnishings. Specifically, water hyacinth and seagrass does a great job for certain categories.
Storage & Organization (hampers, baskets, bins, cubes, boxes)
Indoor Furniture (stools, chairs, tables)
Kitchen & Dining (caddies, trays, placemats)
Home Decor & Wall Decor (indoor planters, wall decor baskets, mirrors, vases)
Lighting (lampshades, table lamps, pendant lights, lanterns)
Pet Accessories (pet beds, pet houses)
Travel & Outdoor Activities (handbags, picnic baskets).
Ultimately, the choice between seagrass and water hyacinth depends on your specific needs, budget, and aesthetic preferences. While both materials have their unique characteristics, understanding their physical properties, color fastness, and raw material prices can help individuals and businesses make informed decisions.
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