What is hemp?
Hemp has been used to make fabric for thousands of years. It is one of the most sustainable fibers in the world and a great alternative to linen. (e.g. the Thought brand has used hemp in its clothing lines since 1995).
Facts
Uses four times less water than non-organic cotton
60-70% of hemp's nutrients are returned to the soil
The plant matures very quickly; in about 120 days
One hectare can absorb a large amount of CO2 - about 15 tons to be exact
How is the content created?
The hemp plant grows
Harvest and Grooming
The core is removed
The threads are softened
Woven in fabric
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Hemp plants mature in just 80-120 days, reaching heights of up to 15 feet with little or no fertilizer. They have a smart, deep root system. This helps prevent soil erosion, removes toxins and aerates the soil for the benefit of future crops.
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When it has matured, the plant is cut and goes through "retting". This is a rotting process, where the outer layer is removed, exposing the long, inner "bast" fibers. These fibers are what make up the textile material used to make hemp clothing.
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The wood cores are then removed by peeling.
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The hard, scratchy biopolymer called "lignin" is removed, making the strands softer and smoother.
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Finally, the threads are spun in a similar way to other natural fibers; the bast fibers twist together to form long threads. This is then spun and woven into a fine linen-like material.