Sisal (fibra)

Fiber derived from leaves of the species Agave sisalana. The fiber has been used since pre-Columbian times; the Aztecs are known to have made clothing from it. From the late 1930s sisal has been cultivated commercially in Central and South America as well as in Africa. It is a strong, stiff fiber with a pale cream color. Sisal is typically dyed bright colors with direct or acid dyes. Sisal is used for cordage, ropes, sacks, brushes, upholstery padding, rugs, matting, handbags, hats, dartboards, and in papermaking.