Pronunciation: [manˈɪlə pˈe͡ɪpə] (IPA) 
The spelling of "Manilla Paper" may initially appear perplexing to some due to the use of two L's rather than a single L as expected in the word "vanilla". However, the word Manilla is derived from the Spanish word for yellow, "manila," and refers to the natural pale yellow color of the paper. The correct spelling is therefore "Manilla Paper." The phonetic transcription of this word is /məˈnɪlə peɪpər/.
Manilla paper is a type of lightweight, low-cost, brown-colored paper characterized by its smooth texture and moderate strength. It is often used for a variety of craft and artistic purposes, as well as for practical applications such as packaging and filing.
The term "Manilla" originates from the Spanish word "manila," which was the name of a type of hemp fiber that was previously utilized to make ropes and various paper products. However, modern Manilla paper is typically composed of wood pulp or recycled materials that have been bleached to achieve a distinctive beige hue.
Manilla paper is widely appreciated for its versatility, as it can be easily cut, folded, and manipulated to create an array of crafts, such as origami, collages, and scrapbooking. Its smooth surface also makes it suitable for writing and drawing with various mediums, including pencils, pens, and markers.
In addition to its artistic applications, Manilla paper is frequently employed for practical purposes. Its moderate strength and durability make it ideal for creating folders, document covers, and envelopes. It is commonly used in offices, schools, and administrative settings for organization and file storage due to its relatively low cost and availability.
Overall, Manilla paper serves as a multipurpose material that offers a balance between affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for both artistic and practical projects.
The word "Manilla" originated from the Spanish term "manila", which means "from Manila". "Manila" refers to the capital city of the Philippines, which was historically a major center for international trade.
During the Spanish colonial period, Manila was a hub for the trade of various goods, including paper made from a type of fiber extracted from the abaca plant, known as Manila hemp. This particular paper had a distinctive light brown color and was widely used for various purposes.
Over time, the term "Manilla Paper" came to refer to the type of paper made from Manila hemp. Its popularity spread to other parts of the world, and the name stuck, even though the use of Manila hemp fiber eventually declined. Today, "Manilla Paper" generally refers to a type of lightweight, light brown or buff-colored paper that is commonly used for drawing, crafts, and other arts-related purposes.
