This controversial substance is often related to the hippies of the ’60s, but it is actually one of the first known domesticated plants. Hemp was cultivated by cultures for decades. In fact, the initial drafts of the Declaration of Independence were written on hemp paper, and the earliest flags were made from hemp fiber.
Though it’s another assortment of plant, hemp’s biological resemblance to marijuana means it could only be grown with government consent in the United States. However it is still a favorite, durable and ecofriendly “super fiber” that’s used in several home textiles.
Keep searching to get a closer look in hemp’s credentials and how you may use it in your house.
Gibson Gimpel Interior Design
The basics: Hemp fabric is made of the fibers from the herbaceous plant of the species Cannabis sativa, a high-yield harvest that generates a great deal more fiber per acre than cotton.
A 2005 report by the Stockholm Environment Institute in comparison with water, land and energy demands of organic hemp and cotton. Hemp water and soil requirements were easier on the environment than organic cotton, and hemp was just marginally worse for energy usage.
This chamber uses a hemp rug as an extra durable floor covering.
Eminent Interior Design
Programs: Hemp fibers may be utilised in 100 percent hemp products but are usually blended with other organic fibers, such as flax, cotton or silk — like the rug in this photo. When used in clothes and furnishings, hemp is usually blended at a 55 percent to 45 percent split.
Hemp is eight times stronger than cotton, which explains the reason why it was often used to weave sails and rope for the American and British navy. This project used hemp rope to hang an cute daybed from the ceiling.
Pinney Designs
While hemp is most commonly seen in upholstery, curtains and rugs, it creates some surprising appearances, too. The beautiful wallpaper in this bathroom is produced out of a hemp blend.
ASID, Terri Symington
Pros: Hemp cloth looks and behaves a lot like lace. It softens with each washing and age. Like cotton, it breathes well and is very durable. It is a fantastic choice for upholstery — like the dining table seat backs in these photos.
Hemp is often recommended for warm, humid climates, since the cloth resists mould and absorbs moisture. Fabrics made from pure hemp are also hypo-allergenic and non-irritating to skin.
Kate Jackson Design
Disadvantages: Hemp is not a colorfast cloth, so dyed hemp will not have a very rich hue. Like lace, hemp fabrics wrinkle easily and may feel scratchy, based on the blend. Look for hemp blended with fabrics like wool and silk to give it a hand, like this bedroom rug.
Shades of Light
Hemp Arm Chair – $798
Factors: Hemp is grown all around the Earth, however, China is its biggest producer. Check where your hemp is made prior to making any purchases so that you can make an accurate judgment of its carbon footprint.
Upcycling: Among the best ecological ethos is to re-engineer products instead of throw them in the trash. Hemp’s durability makes it great for upcycling projects. France is Europe’s biggest producer of hemp, so it is small wonder that it is widely used. Reused hemp bags increase the Provencal aesthetic in this film.