What is Hemp?

Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is an extremely durable and remarkably versatile natural fiber that has been used for thousands of years in the making of rope, tents, clothing, and an almost endless array of fabrics for outdoor use. Materials made from hemp have been discovered in tombs dating back to 8,000 B.C.E. In fact, Christopher Columbus sailed to America on ships rigged with hemp which easily withstood many, many years of exposure to harsh elements of the sea, including salt air and sea spray, intense sun, and high winds.

In fact, the very first pair of jeans made by Levi Strauss were made from Hemp.

Hemp fibers are naturally rough and course; but an enzymatic process was developed in the 1980s that softens the fibre without reducing its strength, and making hemp much more wearable and comfortable. Softened hemp fiber can now be spun alone or with other fibers to produce textiles for apparel.

Hemp weaves of finer, softer threads are increasingly used in cloth diapers because of hemp's natural absorbency, anti-fungal, and anti-microbial properties.  And with repeated machine washings, hemp not only softens naturally over time, but retains its natural strength and resilience.

Hemp linens are surprisingly soft, and again, actually become softer and drape more beautifully with repeated washings   Hemp tablecloths and linens will outlast even the finest cotton linens, for heirloom quality straight from Nature.

Hemp is an extremely fast growing crop, producing more fiber yield per acre than any other source. Hemp can produce 250% more fiber than cotton and 600% more fiber than flax using the same amount of land. The amount of land needed for obtaining equal yields of fiber place hemp at an advantage over other fibers. Hemp grows best in warm tropical zones or in moderately cool, temperate climates, such as north america and Europe. Hemp leaves the soil in excellent condition for any succeeding crop, especially when weeds may otherwise be troublesome. Where the ground permits, hemp's strong roots descend for three feet or more. The roots anchor and protect the soil from runoff, building and preserving topsoil and subsoil structures similar to those of forests. Moreover, hemp does not exhaust the soil. Hemp plants shed their leaves all through the growing season, adding rich organic matter to the topsoil and helping it retain moisture. Farmers have reported excellent hemp growth on land that had been cultivated steadily for nearly 100 years. The possibilities for hemp fabrics are immense.

Given the vastness and amazing profitability of the global hemp markets, and the ecological benefits of widespread use of hemp fibers, it remains peculiar that the United States Congress still can not legalize farming and production of Cannabis Sativa plantings. The economic benefits to the U.S. would be tremendous. Interesting.

(Important sewing tip:  Hemp fabrics (particularly canvas) that are not surged, may unravel when washed.  Be sure to surge before sewing!)