Ramie is a term appearing with increased frequency in the labeling of sweaters and some linenlook textiles. It is a plant fiber that has been used since ancient times. There are at least two acceptable pronunciations for the word. Some authorities call it rame RAYmee while others are saying rame rahmee. It is also known as China grass. Interest in ramie articles in the U.S. market resulted initially from increased trade with China and importers taking advantage of a loophole in the U.S trade laws. These laws limited the import of wool, cotton and manmade fiber textiles but did not limit the import of silk, ramie and other minor natural fiber products. Import quota regulations now include ramie and should create a leveling off of imported articles made from this fiber. China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Korea are considered the leading producers of ramie but Brazil, the Philippines and some Indonesian countries are also important producers. Ramie is one of the strongest natural fibers and exhibits even greater strength when wet. It possesses little elasticity and is somewhat brittle and stiff. This causes fiber breakage and abrasion where creased or folded repeatedly. To reduce possible damage, avoid ironing sharp creases in fabrics such as napkins or skirt pleats.

Telephone: 614-292-2011
Website: http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/5000/5501.html