craftgrrl | paper straw?

I just bought a crocheted straw cloche made out of paper straw (this hat, for the curious). I like it a lot and would like to make some of my own, but I can't seem to find any information or sources on the material. I know crocheted goods can be made from raffia too, but I can't find any information on how that is done. Most of the craft raffia I see seems pretty messy for that kind of work.

Basically, I'd like to make some hats out of some straw-like natural material. Can anyone help me out with how-to information or sources for the materials? Thank you!