Nettle
Fiber
Nettle fiber is a bast fiber obtained from the stalks of the nettle plant. Historically, it was processed and used in a very similar way as flax was to make linen. Nettle fiber is slightly stronger than linen, and as nettles are an abundant plant across many climates, they are an excellent resource for fiber production.
Care must be taken while harvesting the nettles to avoid being stung. Gloves and long sleeves are strongly recommended. After harvesting, the leaves are removed and the stalks are retted and dried. Once this stage is completed, the nettles' stinging hairs have rotted away and the nettles can be handled safely. The processes of breaking, scutching, and hackling are identical to those of linen. The nettle fiber is ready to be spun using a drop spindle or spinning wheel, and then woven on a loom.