(The thumbnail photo shows the hemp bast fibers (the part that becomes usable fiber) and the woody core (husk/shive) separated. From Wikipedia.)
The external appearance of the central hemp stalk is roughly divided into the bast fibers and the woody core. Like many plant fibers, the peeled bast is separated to extract fibers, which are then spun into yarn. While the flax stalk consists of bundles of fibers, hemp’s distinctive feature is its hard, bone-like central stem.
In Japan, the process of extracting fibers using hot water is called “seima.” Refined hemp yarn has a glossy golden sheen.
At the microscopic level, separated hemp fibers, like linen, are porous. Porosity means that many channels run along the fibers, resembling bundles of straws or the cross-section of a lotus root. This structure is considered the basis for hemp’s water retention, heat retention, and UV protection properties.
Thanks to this porous structure, hemp can absorb and retain air and moisture (humidity), and at times release them—making it, in a sense, a “breathing fiber.” These properties help regulate both the wearing environment and the living environment.
