In the 1800's fabric made from hemp was very popular. The long fibers produce a fabric that can be similar to linen in finish and very strong. Levi Strauss used hemp to make his famous Levi's® jeans.
Because the hemp family of plants is the source of the illegal substance marijuana (THC), commercial growing was all but discontinued in the 20th century. This was in spite of the fact that the hemp grown for fabric production contains little, if any, of the illegal substance. Because of it's high strength and easy cultivation, the US Army grew hemp during the war for rope production. In the late 1960's industrial crops were again produced in Canada and today we are seeing a renewed interest in clothing made with this marvelous natural fabric.
Giorgio Armani, the famous fashion designer has created designs made with hemp and a commercial grade is now grown in many parts of the world to supply the growing recognition and use of this great fabric.