Historical note: Traditional cigar construction used three leaf positions on the plant — binder (lower), filler (middle), and wrapper (upper). Darker cured leaf is generally stronger in character; lighter leaf milder. This article describes historical plant anatomy and craft terminology for educational interest only.
Once dry, leaves were stacked and aged. Veins were removed from filler and binder leaves before bunching and pressing into moulds — skilled work documented in trade literature.
We do not provide step-by-step instructions for making cigars or other tobacco products. For cultivation and curing, see Growing Tobacco and Curing Tobacco.