What is Manila Paper ?

Manila paper is a type of paper. It originally came from the Philippines and was made from Manila hemp or abacá. Manila paper is now made from semi-bleached wood fibres. It is not as strong as kraft paper but has better printing qualities. Manila is buff coloured and the fibres are usually visible to the naked eye. Because this paper is generally inexpensive, it is commonly given to children for making child art. Manila is most commonly used for making file folders. Some fashion schools and people in the fashion industry use large rolls of Manila to create finalized clothing patterns. In East Africa, Manila paper refers to card stock paper.

Why is Manila Paper called Manila Paper?

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If you’re in the Philippines, it is quite understandable why you call Manila paper as such. One can guess because it originated from Manila. However, people from the west call a certain envelope Manila envelope which is made out of Manila Paper. Why exactly is Manila paper called Manila paper?

Manila paper is made from the fibrous plant material called Manilla hemp or otherwise known as ‘abaca.’ They do not necessarily come from Manila, Philippines but the Philippines then, particularly Manila was a well-known supplier of this kind of plant. ‘Abaca’ though or Manilla hemp can be seen in other parts of the country and even other parts of the world. It just so happened when Manila paper was ‘invented’ Manila, Philippines was a well-known supplier of the said material.