Hemp

What does Hemp mean?

Also known as the controversial fibre with a damaged reputation, hemp is a low cost annual seed plant that grows in most climates. Hemp’s natural fibre and seed oil have over 25,000 possible industrial applications and these were once competitors of wood pulp, cotton, and petroleum products like inks, paints, plastics, solvents, sealants, and synthetic fabrics.

Heddels explains Hemp

Despite its (unwarranted) bad reputation, hemp is an extremely versatile and useful plant. It was cultivated in China as far back as 4000 B.C., and is thought to be one of the earliest domesticated plants. Hemp is one of the strongest plant fibers, and creates a durable fabric similar in texture to linen.

It also holds an important place in American history, as Betsy Ross sewed the first American flag out of hemp. In addition, Levi Strauss originally manufactured his jeans with a lightweight hemp canvas.

Additional Resources

Skeins of hemp yarn:

Raw Denim Term - Hemp

Source: nepal1craft.com