What is Hemp Fabric

Posted: 06/18/24 | Author: Lawrence Serbin

Hemp fabric is a versatile and eco-friendly fiber produced from the stalks of the hemp plant. More specifically the outer bast fiber on the hemp stalks.

Praised for its exceptional strength and sustainability, hemp fabric has become popular around the world for its durability, UV resistance, and natural feel. With antimicrobial, biodegradable, water-absorbency, and odor-resistant properties, hemp fabric checks all the boxes for versatility.

Plus, it grows quickly, uses very little water, and even enriches the soil it’s grown in—making it a true champion of sustainability. Let's learn more about hemp fabric's making process, qualities, and uses.

Source of Hemp Fabric

Hemp fabric is manufactured from fibers extracted from the stem of the Cannabis sativa plant. Like all other bast fibers, such as flax, linen, and jute, hemp fabric is durable and allows good breathability.

Compared to other fibers, hemp is also naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and UV rays, making it a perfect choice for outdoor wear and other items. Despite being a form of cannabis, hemp contains trace amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which makes it completely non-intoxicating and safe to use daily.

Historical Facts About Hemp Fabric

Hemp fabric has a history of over 6,000 years, and the oldest known textiles are from ancient Asia. China started using hemp to make paper by 700 AD.

In North America, hemp was introduced in the 1600s, even before cotton, and it became vital for ropes, sails, and clothing. By the 1700s, hemp was so important that American colonies required farmers to grow it. However, with the invention of the cotton gin, cotton production increased due to its lower cost. Cheaper fibers began to be imported from Southeast Asia. With the introduction of alcohol prohibition and demonization of drugs, hemp became a casualty of association with marijuana. And by the late 1930s, industrial hemp was outlawed with the Marijuana Tax Act of 1938.

Recently, this crop has again become an unmatched source of eco-friendly and durable fabric.

How Is Hemp Fabric Made?

The process of making hemp fabric goes through several key stages:

Cultivation

Hemp seeds are sown close together to allow the growth of tall stalks that can reach a height of 3 to 15 feet. The flowers on the plants contain stems, which produce strong fibers.

Retting

Breaking down the pectin and holding the fibers involves soaking the hemp stalks in water for around ten days.

Breaking and Beating

After retting, the stalks are broken and beaten to separate the fibers from the hard central core.

Combing

Separated fibers are combed out into long strands for easy spinning into yarn.

Spinning

The fibers are spun into yarn. Wet spinning produces a smoother texture, while dry spinning produces coarser threads. These yarns help to make hemp fabric.

Exceptional Properties of Hemp Fabric

Hemp fabric is famous for its unique qualities. Here’s what makes it a special choice:

• Durability: It is durable and 3 to 8 times stronger than cotton. It resists wear and tear and lasts longer.
• Antibacterial & Antimicrobial: Hemp fabric is naturally resistant to bacterial and fungal growth.
• Temperature Regulation: Hemp is a breathable and moisture-wicking fiber that keeps you cool in a hot climate and warm in a cold atmosphere.
• UV Protection: Hemp provides natural protection against harmful UV. It creates a layer that blocks 99% UV rays to protect you from harmful effects.
• Eco-Friendly: Hemp is a very sustainable crop, which requires less water, no toxic pesticides, and fewer nutrients from the soil.
• Biodegradable: Hemp fabric is 100% biodegradable, and unlike synthetic fabric, it doesn’t pollute landfills for years.
• Hypoallergenic: Hemp is naturally hypoallergenic and an excellent choice for sensitive skin or those allergic to other materials.
• Minimal Care: Hemp fabric resists wrinkles more than linen and can be machine-washed or hand-washed with minimal care.

Applications of Hemp Fibers

Hemp fiber is a highly valuable material in various industries due to its strength, flexibility, and versatility. Some of its major uses are:

• Clothing: Hemp fibers make soft, breathable, and long-lasting garments, including shirts, trousers, dresses, and jackets.
• Home Textiles: Hemp is highly suitable for bed linens and towels because of its absorbent and antimicrobial properties.
• Rope and Twine: Strong and long-wearing hemp is useful for creating ropes and twines for marines and agricultural applications.
• Heavy-duty Fabrics: Hemp is a reliable material for making heavy-duty industrial textiles like canvas, sailcloth, tarpaulin, and tote bags.
• Paper Products: Hemp is a raw material used to make high-quality paper products, including books, newspapers, and biodegradable packaging.
• Footwear: Hemp fiber is a breathable and resilient material for making sustainable and eco-friendly footwear, such as sandals and shoes.
• Automotive Parts: In the automobile industry, hemp is used in bioplastics for car interiors and exterior parts.
• Construction Materials: The construction industry uses hemp to manufacture strong, environmentally friendly products such as insulation and composite panels.

Conclusion

In summary, hemp fabric is an extraordinary material with a long history of use and countless benefits of hemp fabrics that make it stand apart from other textiles.

This material provides durability, UV protection, and wrinkle resistance for wearers. Its water-resistant and antimicrobial properties, biodegradable nature, and odor resistance enhance its effectiveness.

Hemp fabric also supports the environment by being less water-intensive and improving the soil. For those looking for high-quality hemp fabric, Hemp Traders is the trusted name that offers premium quality material for sustainable fashion products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hemp a summer fabric?

Yes, it is. Hemp has impeccable moisture-absorbing properties, making it the perfect fabric for summer wear.

What is hemp fabric made of?

Hemp fabric is made from the stalks of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.). These stalks are processed to extract fibers, which are then spun into yarn and woven into fabric.

Is hemp fabric expensive?

It is more expensive than common fabrics, such as polyester or cotton. However, it is still usually more affordable than luxury fabrics, such as silk or cashmere.

Do hemp clothes smell?

Thanks to their natural water-wicking and antibacterial properties, hemp clothes won’t smell strongly of body odor.

How long does hemp fabric last?

Compared to cotton, which lasts about 5 years, clothes made out of hemp fabric can last two to three times longer. If you prefer clothes that last a long time, hemp fabric is what you’re looking for.