|  Hemp
is a plant of the genus Cannabis species sativa. Cannabis sativa is a
different species than the cannabis species smoked for its pyschoactive
properties. Hemp has traditionally been used as a source for fiber, textiles, and cordage. Hemp seed oil also have valuable properties, such as high levels of Omega 3 fatty acids. Hemp is a fast growing plant that chokes out weeds with its aggressive growth.
 The fibers used for textiles are the bast fibers of the hemp plant, or the fibers that surround the stalk. To process hemp for textiles, hemp is dried in the field, then retted. Retting allows moisture and bacteria allow fermentation of the stalks, that in turn facilitates the break down of the fibers around the stem. Following retting, stalks are dried, cured, and crushed to further break down the fibers. Hemp has a high tensile strength and is valued for its use in cordage, paper and textiles. | |  Because
of its relation to the drug, all hemp, including industrial hemp, is
characterized as a controlled substance in the United States. Industrial
hemp is being grown and used for fiber, seeds, paper, and biofuel in
China, Europe, Canada and Australia. Although nine states allow
cultivation of industrial hemp, the Drug Enforcement Agency does not
permit any hemp cultivation.
For my textiles, I use a 100 percent hemp, a cotton hemp blend, and a silk hemp blend.
The 100 percent hemp has a very similar texture and feel to flax linen. The cotton hemp blend is like a lightweight muslin, while the silk hemp blend has the hand and drape of a medium weight silk.
If you'd like a complimentary sample of hemp fabric, please email Sarah Jackson at sljack@jacksonfabricarts.com
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