History of Eco-Textiles

The History of Hemp

Hemp is a fibre that dates back to 8,000 B.C.E. This fibre was utilised for daily living, and was coveted and held in high regard by those who used it. This is as it was known as a reliable, strong, and durable fibre (Hemp Traders 2012). It was discovered in tombs, and interestingly, Betsey Ross used it to sew the first American flag (Hemp Traders 2012). Over the years hemp developed to have more uses, but it was predominantly used in industry. Originally, Hemp was a course and rough fabric, which was why it was not utilised for textiles often. There was a way that was used to take the coarseness out, which was to soak the fibre in acid, but this only weakened the fibre, and therefore, weakened the fabric (Hemp Traders 2012). The plant component 'Lignin' was the reason for the woody texture of the hemp (Wise Geek 2012), and in the mid 1980's, researcher found out a way to retrieve the lignin, leaving the hemp still significantly strong and soft- perfect for fabric.  Now this fibre is cultivated and woven.Its strength and Durability was one aspect that made this fibre so poular over the year, and still popular today.

The History of Soy Silk 

Soy Silk is a relatively new fibre, that was introduced in order to be an Eco-friendly version of cashmere, due to its lustre and softness (Silk Wholesalers N.D.). As early as the 1940's, an Eco-friendly soy silk fibre was dreamed of by those in the fashion industry, and it has since then become reality (Mielke's Fibre Arts 2012).  Henry Ford hired two chemists Robert Boyer and Frank Calvert to produce this, and they succeeded, but it had never reached the market until now (Wild Fibres 2012).As an early prototype, Henry Ford wore a suit made from this Eco-friendly fibre. In the past ten years, this fabric has  become a lot more popular, gaining attention from big and exciting international designers such as Stella McCartney, Marc Jacobs, Jil Sander, and Versace (Blue Planet Green Living 2008).  It brings a fabulous biodegradable fabric, which is soft to the touch, and appealing to the eye.

Today's technology is having an impact on the fashion industry. The way that technology has evolved to bigger and better, and more sustainable things, has influenced the industry to undertake the same account, and to move on to a more sustainable way of fashion. They advances in science have significantly impacted the new development of fibres, as they can now manipulate eco-friendly products to be more like a real piece of material. This green initiative in fashion is here to stay.