Ramie
50g (1.8oz) or 100g (3.5oz)
Ramie is a bast plant fibre like linen, so hasn't needed the same level of chemical processing as that required for viscose of rayon. Ramie is processed from plants belonging to the nettle family; Boehmeria Nivea and Boehmeria Tenacissima. These plants grow incredibly quickly, they can reach a heigh of 2 or 3 metres and be harvested several times in a single year. When linen is processed you can remove the outer stem by hitting it, but this isn't possible with ramie, which is one of the things that contributes to the price. The inner stem is then treated with lye (the same chemical used to make soap) and that dissolves the pulpy material, leaving behind the fibrous vascular bundles. The fibre is then combed to make the length of top.
Commercially dyed in a stunning palette of colours to Okeo-Tex 100 standard. This environmental certification verifies the methods used are environmentally friendly, and the dyed used are safe for human health.
Colour Description
Rich, wine coloured red. Slight purple undertones, with a hint of pink.
Whether you're a spinner, felter, or mixed media artist you'll love working with this fibre.
Established in 2011, Hilltop Cloud is run, and owned by Katie Weston. I live in rural mid-Wales and spend my days surrounded by colour, and beautiful fibre. I think I have the best job in the world and am really happy to be able to share what I create.
If you want any advice on products, please just get in touch.
