Hemp and Nettle Products
The use of nettle (Girardinia diversifolia) and hemp (Cannabis sativa) for clothes and household use is an aged old practice in Nepal, and these fibers are known for their strength and durability. The stem bark of nettle and hemp contains fibers with unique qualities, strength, smoothness, lightness and when appropriately treated, a silk-like luster.
The indigenous communities residing in the mid-hills of Nepal collect nettle/hemp bark, extract the bast fibers from the bark and spun them to weave handlooms. HBTL uses the hemp and nettle cloth to produce a variety of attractive, practical and durable bags, packaging material and clothes, sold in Nepal and internationally.
At community level, the finished hemp/nettle items include jackets, porter’s head bands, fishing nets, ropes, bags, mats, coarse clothing material, and blankets, which are sold in local markets or bartered for food or commodity items. Therefore, the harvesting and weaving of nettle/hemp by the indigenous communities is helpful in meeting the basic requirements of their communities.
