Hemp Jewelry

     Hemp is cannabis that is grown specifically for industrial use, and therefore contains very low levels of cannabonoids (THC). When properly grown, hemp has no psychoactive/intoxicating effects when consumed. The growth cycle of hemp is relatively short - 120 days - and is therefore and efficient and economical crop to grow. It is among one of productive and useful plants know and is also very safe. All kinds of materials can be made from hemp - paper, textiles (from which jewelry is made), building materials, food, medicine, paint, detergent, varnish, oil, ink and fuel. Hemp can be grown in most locations and climates with only moderate water and fertilization requirements, making it an environmentally friendly crop to grow.

     Hemp jewelry is made from hemp twine and hemp cord, onto which beads are usually strung. Hemp cord in its natural state is a light brownish yellow, however the twine can be dyed a variety of colours, and bleached to an off-white. Some other accessories that are made from hemp include hats, bags and clothing. Hemp jewelry is woven on a wooden board with pegs and coloured beads can be strung into the pattern.

The types of jewelry that you can create from hemp include:
- Bracelets, Chokers, Necklaces, Key-rings, Anklets

How to make your own hemp jewelry:

     To make hemp jewelry, the first material that you need is the hemp twine. Most hemp jewelry is made from 1 mm twine (or 20 lb.). Thicker twines may be used to make men's jewelry. The twine should be an even thickness and smooth (unless you like a rougher texture). You can wax your hemp to give it a shinier finish. Next you need beads or charms to liven up the design. Finally, you will need to finish you jewelry with a clasp. Cord tips go over the end of the cord and you attach the clasp to them.

     There are basic knots that are used in hemp making. The two most common knots used are the spiral pattern and the flat pattern. To make these knots you need to be using four strands of hemp.

     Adding beads is easy. Just thread the beads into the 2 centre strings of the 4 that you are using to make your knots. You can choose all kinds of colours and sizes of beads and you can space them as far apart or as close as you wish.

Price:
     Because hemp is relatively cheap to produce, hemp jewelry is very cheap. Most items you can buy for under $10. With the addition of more beads to the designs the prices could rise slightly.