It’s a known fact that plants are used to make clothing, from cotton to linen and even hemp.
What is cotton used for?
Cotton plants produce fibres that are spun into yarn or thread, making it one of the most widely used natural fibres for clothing. Cotton is one of the most notable fibres in the textile industry due to its softness, breathability and versatility.
Linen can keep you cool
Linen is derived from the flax plant. Valued for helping the wearer stay cool in warm weather, linen is breathable and has excellent moisture-wicking properties. It helps keep the body cool and dry, which is why it’s often used for summer clothing like shirts, dresses, and trousers.
What is hemp used for?
Hemp fibres are strong, and they can be used to make a variety of textiles, including clothing. The fibres are used to make jeans, shirts, and dresses. The Royal Shakespeare Company has a costume dyer who tends to the garments which are transformed in colour through plants.
What is an Aran sweater?
Traditional Aran yarn sweaters are not made from plants but out of wool. The Aran sweater originates from the Aran Islands off the west coast of Ireland and is known for its intricate cable knit patterns. Wool, the primary material used in Aran yarn, is a natural fibre obtained from sheep.
What other plants are used for clothing?
Bamboo can be processed into a soft, breathable fabric often referred to as bamboo rayon or bamboo viscose.
Ramie is a plant, related to nettles, and it produces strong, silky fibres that can be used in clothing. Similar to ramie, nettle fibres can be used to make fabric, though it’s less common.
While more commonly used for rope, jute fibres can also be woven into fabrics for clothing.
Fibres from the banana plant, especially the stems, can be used to make textiles, a process traditionally used in Japan.
These plant-based fibres are often sought after for their sustainability and biodegradable properties compared to synthetic fibres.