Nettle Fibre: Its Prospects, Uses and Problems in Historical Perspective

Abstract

The stinging nettle plant (Urtica dioica L.) is perhaps best known as an abundant and perennial weed, but throughout history it has been used as a source of fibre in many parts of the world. This paper explores the potential uses of nettle fibre within a historical context and describes efforts made by the German and UK governments to cultivate and process the fibre for special war purposes during World War I and II. There has recently been a revival of interest in this fascinating fibre, and recent attempts to commercialise production are discussed.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jane Harwood

Jane Harwood was a Senior Research Fellow in the TEAM Research Group at De Montfort University, Leicester, UK. Her interests lie in the area of natural fibres, especially bast fibres. Her involvement in the cultivation and processing of stinging nettle for the STING project led her into the fascinating history of nettle fibre.

Gillian Edom

Gillian Edom has spent many years researching the myriad aspects of the stinging nettle plant, from folklore to fibre, and is an acknowledged expert in the area. She has recently published a book, From Sting to Spin: A History of Nettle Fibre (Exeter: Urtica Books, 2010), describing the history of stinging nettle fibre.