Made from the fibers of the toquilla palm, which grows exclusively on the coast of Ecuador.

Making a Panama Hat is intricate and time-consuming, and it has been passed down through generations of artisans. It can take up to three weeks to complete a single hat.

To begin, the artisans carefully harvest the toquilla palm leaves and boil them in water to soften the fibers. They then split the fibers into very fine strands, which they weave together into a thin, flexible fabric. It takes around two to three weeks to make one of these pieces.

Once the basic shape of the hat has been formed, the artisans begin the process of adding the intricate decorative details that make each hat unique. 

Throughout the process, the artisans rely on traditional techniques and tools, such as wooden blocks and knives, that have been used for generations. The finished product is a masterpiece of craftsmanship, full of detail, that tells a story of Ecuador's rich cultural heritage. 

Panama Hats are not only beautiful, but they are also practical. The toquilla palm fibers used to make the hats are lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for hot and humid climates.