The most recently developed type of fabric which is currently getting the most attention is hemp cloth. As sustainable as it is eco-friendly, the hemp fabric is a rather excellent substitute for cotton, polyester, and nylon. But have you ever thought about how hemp fabric makes its way from the field to your closet? It is an exciting process and includes stages to make the hemp plant in a strong and fashionable fabric. Let's explore the journey of hemp fabric in more detail.
Step 1: Growing Hemp
Hemp fabric starts its journey with the hemp plant itself. It is a strong and eco-friendly crop which is simple to grow and requires very few pesticides and little water. A good alternative to conventional crops since its impact on the soil is positive; it does not exhaust nutrients like cotton but rather contributes to improving the soil's capacity. The first step towards the production of hemp fabric is to cultivate and grow the hemp crop.
Step 2: Harvesting and Retting
After harvesting, Hemp (Cannabis sativa) is widely grown for its fibres; it produces phloem fibres, which are formed in bundles towards the periphery of the stem. In order to remove the fibre from the stem it is left to decompose by the action of fungi and bacteria, this process is called retting.. Retting is the process of breaking down the tough outer fibers of the hemp stalk to separate them from the inner core. Traditionally, this is done by soaking the stalks in water or exposing them to dew, allowing the plant’s natural enzymes to break down the fibers. This step is crucial for obtaining the fine fibers needed to make hemp fabric.
Step 3: Fiber Extraction and Spinning
The final step after the fermentation process is fiber extraction. The outer fiber of the hemp stalk gets peeled off while the inner Illinois stems are retained. After cleaning, these long, strong fibers get bent to produce strands. Hemp fibers are transformed into silky hemp threads that can be woven into a range of textile products.
Step 4: Weaving or Knitting the Hemp Fabric
After creating the yarn, it is necessary to either weave or knit it into a fabric. Depending on the desired finish, hemp yarn can be treated using traditional techniques or more sophisticated, modern equipment. The finished piece of hemp fabric shows several distinguishing characteristics such as strong structure, good air circulation, and a natural look and feel. Multiple types such as clothing fabric of lighter weight and home fabric of heavier materials can be made
Step 5: Dyeing and Finishing
After the fabric is woven, it’s time for the finishing touches. Hemp fabric can be dyed using natural dyes or synthetic dyes, depending on the color. The finishing process involves washing and treating the fabric to make it softer, blendable, and more resistant to wrinkles. Some manufacturers also apply a special treatment to enhance the fabric’s moisture-wicking, anti-bacterial, and UV-resistant properties. This final step ensures that the hemp fabric is ready for use in fashion and other products.
Step 6: From Fabric to Fashion
With the hemp fabric ready, it is time to get down to designing clothes, accessories, and home décor. Hemp can be combined with organic cotton or linen, making hemp clothing durable and timeless, perfect for those who appreciate longevity and resilience. This versatile material is ideal for the sustainable fashion industry as it can be made into anything from t-shirts and dresses to eco-friendly accessories.
Step 7: The Final Step – Your Closet
Lastly, if you buy a garment made from hemp fabric for your local sustainable fashion house or buy a hemp blend piece from your usual store, you are faced with the last stop; your closet! Wearing any of these garments is making a statement by reducing the impact on the environment at any given point. There are a lot of merits associated with hemp fabric as it is biodegradable, requires less water and pesticide when being grown, and is strong enough to last for years. These characteristics make it superb for a conscious consumer. So, as you choose hemp fabric for your wardrobe, your style is even more comfortable, but also enables a more equipped world for the future.
Conclusion
The process of hemp fabric making for clothes is quite a story that depicts the sustainability and diversity of the hemp plant- from being a low care, quick growing crop to a soft and strong fabric it has disturbed the fashion and material industry. Due to a growing number of people that are environmentally conscious, hemp is a great natural resource for those who want to make a difference without having to compromise on their look or comfort. The plant is expanding in popularity as a result. So, the next time you use hemp fabric, don't forget the story of how it got to be in your closet. The story of a new growth but yet an environmentally hopeful one.
Source: Hemp industries association, the health horizon
- Pranjal Mhatre
