Centre for Sustainable Fashion

Fabric designer sought to develop Himalayan nettle blended yarns and fabrics

July 5, 2010 by Cath

Himalayan Wild Fibers - Kathmandu, Nepal

www.himalayanwildfibers.com

Ellie Skeele is based in Nepal and is working with the local community to develop the local nettle fibre industry.

She is interested in finding opportunities to introduce to the developed world fiber from the wild-growing giant Himalayan stinging nettle plant. Though common nettle (urtica dioica) and Himalayan nettle (girardinia diversifolia) are biologically similar, their fibers are quite different. Himalayan nettle is the longest fiber currently known to humankind and spinners at a Italian fabric manufacturer have deemed it finer, yet stronger and more elastic, than linen.

The fiber is not just sustainable; it actually improves the environment in which it grows by helping to control erosion and preventing deadly landslides. Collection of the giant Himalayan nettle plant creates income for Nepali villagers and we are producing fiber using low tech methods to create income opportunities for yet more Nepalis.

A fabric designer is sought– someone who knows fibers and would be interested in spinning different blends of Himalayan nettle with other fabrics.

The Italian fabric manufacturer spun and wove a 50/50 viscose/Himalayan nettle sample. The manufacturer was interested in reducing the amount of Himalayan nettle, combining with one or more fibers and moving forward.

Sample fiber is available and can be sent to anyone seriously interested in trying to create beautiful blended yarns and fabrics.

For more information please contact:

ellie @ himalayanwildfibers dot com