COOPERATIVE KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY FACT SHEET
Information about the Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program 2020
Dr. Allison P. Young, Associate Extension Professor, Family and Consumer Sciences
Hemp fiber and fabrics offers distinct advantages in comfort, and durability. Hemp as a fiber is recognized as beneficial for the economy and the environment. Hemp is among the oldest crops on the planet, going back more than 10,000 years.
Hemp is derived from the Cannabis family of plants. Just are there are different varieties within a species, for instance Pugs versus St. Bernard dogs, the same is true within the Cannabis family of plants. Most people are familiar with the type of Cannabis plants that used primarily for THC which has a psychoactive effect when consumed.
Hemp, also called “industrial hemp,” refers to cannabis varieties that are primarily grown as an agricultural crop (such as seeds and fiber, and byproducts such as oil, seed cake, hurds) and is characterized by plants that are low in the psychoactive chemical THC. THC levels for hemp used for fiber are generally less than 1%.
Hemp fibers are used in a wide range of product categories. Hemp can be used for fabrics and textiles, yarns, carpeting, and home furnishings. Yarn made from hemp fibers can be blended with other fibers to develop textiles for casual wear, bridal gowns and upholstery. The long fibers are naturally stronger and last longer than cotton.
from hemp fibers can be blended with other fibers to develop textiles for casual wear, bridal gowns and upholstery. The long fibers are naturally stronger and last longer than cotton.
Industrial hemp can be grown for fiber, seed or as a dual purpose crop. For the purposes of fiber and fabric, the part of the hemp plant used is the outer portion of the stalk. Hemp fibers are similar to flax, jute and sisal, as they are in the bast fiber category. Bast fibers are those which are obtained from the stems and leaves of plants. Industrial hemp grown for textile fiber is cultivated to grow tall, up to 15 feet, with few leaves and branches.