This tough, plain-woven textile is made from raw hemp fibers, giving it a stiff texture and a natural brownish-gray color. It serves as a highly durable, low-cost material for heavy-duty clothing, aprons, and utility bags. Because it lacks chemical bleaching, the fabric retains the natural strength and rot-resistance of the hemp plant.
The historic reproduction uniforms use a stiff Russia drab that takes weeks of wear to soften up.
Related terms
Russia linen
A durable, coarse linen fabric historically woven from hemp or flax.
Russia calf
A high-quality, durable calfskin leather traditionally tanned with birch oil.
Welsh plain
A historic coarse woolen cloth manufactured in Wales for export and working-class garments.
Greige goods
Raw, unfinished woven or knitted textiles that have not yet been bleached, dyed, or treated.