Identification, Extraction and Spinning Processes Hemp-Type Fibers
Bast fibers — commonly grouped under the informal name “linen/hemp/industrial fibers” — are natural cellulosic fibers obtained from the stems (bast) of various dicotyledonous plants. They have been used for millennia for textiles, ropes, paper, composites, and more. This article reviews the main types of bast fibers (ramie, flax, hemp, sisal, jute, kenaf, nettle), explains how to identify the plants in the field, and describes the industrial machinery and process steps used both to extract fiber from stalks and to spin these fibers into yarn. For each plant and each machine/process step the article lists suggested public image sources (for easy download or embedding) so you can assemble a richly illustrated Word document or presentation. Types of Bast Fibers and How to Identify Their Plants Below are the most commonly used bast fibers with short botanical notes and field identification tips. After each entry you’ll find suggested image search keywords and example public image sou...