The Case for Hemp as a Composite Material for Instrument Making
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The Case for Hemp as a Composite Material for Instrument Making
Hemp has been gaining attention as a viable alternative material for instrument making, particularly in the construction of stringed musical instruments such as guitars and violins. There are several compelling reasons for considering hemp as a composite material for instrument making, including its environmental sustainability, historical significance, and favorable acoustic properties.
Reefer Madness Propaganda and Hearst Paper Forest Products Competition
The demonization of hemp can be traced back to the “Reefer Madness” propaganda campaign of the early 20th century, which sought to associate hemp with marijuana and promote fear around its use. This propaganda was fueled by various interests, including the competition hemp posed to the paper industry, particularly that of William Randolph Hearst. Hemp’s potential to produce high-quality paper products threatened the dominance of the forest products industry, leading to efforts to suppress its use through misinformation and legal restrictions.
Henry Ford and the 2018 Farm Bill
Notably, industrialist Henry Ford was an advocate for hemp as a versatile and sustainable material. In the 1940s, he famously constructed a car with body panels made from hemp-based composite materials, showcasing the strength and durability of hemp in manufacturing applications. Despite this early promise, regulatory constraints limited the widespread adoption of hemp-based products for many decades.
However, in more recent times, the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill in the United States has significantly impacted the perception and utilization of hemp. This legislation legalized the cultivation of industrial hemp, opening up new possibilities for its use in various industries, including instrument making.
Jonathan Wilson’s Pivot to Hemp Choice for GuitarViols and Other Stringed Musical Instruments
Renowned luthier Jonathan Eric Wilson has been at the forefront of advocating for hemp as a superior material for crafting stringed musical instruments. His pivot to using hemp composites in his GuitarViols and other instruments has garnered attention within the music community. Wilson’s choice reflects not only his commitment to environmental sustainability but also his recognition of the acoustic qualities and structural integrity offered by hemp-based materials.
Great Dietary Supplement and Safe to Work With!
Beyond its potential as a composite material for instrument making, hemp offers additional benefits that contribute to its appeal. It is recognized as a great dietary supplement due to its rich nutritional profile, containing essential fatty acids, protein, and various vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, working with hemp is considered safe and non-toxic, making it an attractive option for instrument makers concerned about their health and well-being during the crafting process.
Promotes Happiness and Well-Being
Moreover, proponents of hemp emphasize its potential to promote happiness and well-being. Hemp-derived products such as CBD (cannabidiol) have gained popularity for their purported calming and stress-relieving effects. While this aspect may not directly relate to its use as a composite material for instrument making, it underscores the multifaceted appeal of hemp within broader societal contexts.
In conclusion, the case for utilizing hemp as a composite material for instrument making is supported by its historical significance, environmental sustainability, acoustic properties, regulatory developments such as the 2018 Farm Bill, endorsements from influential figures, and its broader health-related benefits.
Join the revolution!
Stay tenacious!
Stay inspired!
Jonathan
A GuitarViol hull made from hemp pulled from the mold with built-in “miracle Merlot mist” finish
Another example showcasing the fibers with a “Deep Syrah” finish. Note the “impossible” neck transition geometry otherwise impractical to make from wood.
The possibilities are endless! Expect upcoming Violin/Viola and guitar models in the near future!
Hemp…it’s the super wood we’ve been after!