The secret is out. After years of misinformation, consumers are discovering that hemp is one our planet's most abundant and environmentally sustainable resources. Hemp products tend to be durable, well made, sustainable, and are usually produced and imported using fair trade practices. In the past year, the number of consumers seeking greener choices when purchasing has increased significantly. Products made from hemp offer an ideal alternative to fabrics produced using chemicals and methods that are harmful to the environment.

Hemp is a natural fiber and one of the safest natural resources to maintain. The long strands of bast fibers found in the stalk of the plant are ideal to use in textiles. The fibers are spun and woven into a colorless material similar to linen and can be blended with other fabrics such as cotton or silk to create a variety of textures.

The plant thrives in most regions and does not require a high level of maintenance or water to grow successfully. In addition, hemp does not deplete the natural resources in the soil. Very little goes to waste when producing hemp materials. Seeds are used to make oil and food supplements, while the stalks are used for fiber. Hemp also produces almost four times more fiber per acre than pine trees!

Other bits of information you may not know about hemp:

Hemp is the most durable of natural fibers. The fibers found in hemp materials are durable and resistant to mold and mildew, making hemp fabric ideal for outdoor use. They absorb dyes well and are less prone to fading than other commonly used materials. Their long, natural, soft fibers gives the fabric better insulation- meaning it will keep you warmer in cold weather.

Hemp paper is easier to make than paper coming from trees. Hemp paper costs less to generate and lasts much longer. If we switched to hemp paper plants, there would be a great reduction in damaging green house gases and we would preserve many of the Earth's natural resources and habitats.

Hemp paper provides the recycling capacity of up to seven rotations. Pine-pulp base papers are only good for three.

Hemp is a natural material that is usually produced without harmful chemicals or pesticides; therefore, it is ideal for people with allergies and who are sensitive to chemicals.