Similar to linen, the bast fiber hemp has been used in fabric crafts for centuries. It is considered the most ecologically sustainable fiber worldwide. Accordingly, it is not surprising that it is becoming increasingly popular in the fashion and textile sector in the wake of rising environmental awareness.
The fast-growing annual hemp plant is naturally resilient and requires neither pesticides nor insecticides. It is very frugal, manages with little water and is therefore resource-saving. In addition, it manages to detoxify depleted soils by absorbing and breaking down pollutants from the soil. In the process, the soil is enriched with nitrogen and oxygen.
Hemp plants are extremely productive, as they are sown close together and can be harvested after only 70-90 days. Several steps are then taken to produce bast fibers for a hemp fabric. Short, coarse fibers are used to make rope, twine and burlap. The long, fine fibers are spun into yarns for home textiles and clothing. Textiles made of hemp have the same properties as linen. They are noble, exceptionally breathable, offer UV protection and become softer to the touch over time.