Next up for twining was some combed hemp fibers. I was rather surprised how short these fibers are, especially compared to flax, with a staple length of 3-4” for what I had. Other preparations can be longer. Still, it twines up well, especially using a small sponge to keep my fingertips hydrated.

Another fiber artist was trying to figure out a mystery fiber and what they described seemed very similar to hemp: staple length, sheen, feel. I did a burn test to compare data and the hemp burned fast, leaving very little ash, and had a smell of burned paper, which is typical of cellulose fibers.

The twine itself is strong and flexible, and surprisingly soft.