Linen

What is Linen?

Linen is made from flax, a natural bast fibre found in the stem of the plant. The fibres are separated, processed and spun into yarn before being woven into fabric. Because flax fibres occur in bundles, small slubs and variations in yarn thickness are common and do not automatically indicate a defect.

Linen is commonly woven in a plain weave, although other constructions are possible. It can be used as pure linen or blended with cotton, viscose or polyester to change its drape, crease recovery and care properties. Linen becomes stronger when wet, but it can shrink if it is washed or dried at excessive temperatures.

Specifications

  • Construction Usually woven in a plain weave
  • Composition Pure linen or blends with cotton, viscose or polyester
  • Fabric weight Commonly around 120 to 250 g/m² for apparel qualities, with heavier versions used for trousers and interior textiles
  • Stretch Little to no natural stretch
  • Abbreviations LI = linen, HL = cotton-linen blend, CO = cotton, CV or VI = viscose, PES = polyester
  • Appearance Natural lustre, visible yarn irregularities, crisp texture and characteristic creasing

Linen

Linen is a woven fabric made from fibres obtained from the stems of the flax plant. It is known for its natural texture, subtle lustre and cool, crisp hand feel. Linen absorbs moisture quickly and dries relatively fast, making it comfortable in warm conditions.

Compared with cotton, linen is generally firmer, stronger and less flexible. Its characteristic creasing is part of the fabric’s appearance and becomes more pronounced during wear. Finer linen qualities feel smoother and more supple, while coarser versions have a more irregular, rustic surface.

Applications

  • Summer shirts and blouses
  • Loose-fitting trousers
  • Unlined dresses and skirts
  • Lightweight jackets
  • Tablecloths and napkins
  • Tea towels and glass cloths
  • Curtains and Roman blinds
  • Cushion covers

Care Instructions

Linen is usually washable at 30 to 40°C, depending on the colour, construction and finish. Avoid overloading the washing machine, as deep folds can become difficult to remove. Air dry while slightly damp and reshape the fabric before drying. Iron at medium to high temperature while the fabric is still damp, provided the care label allows it. Avoid prolonged storage in humid conditions because cellulose fibres can be affected by mildew.

Certifications

European Flax or Masters of Linen certification may be available for linen made from traceable European flax. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 may also be available, depending on the fabric and its finishing treatments.

Practical Tip

Pre-wash linen before cutting because the fabric may shrink during its first wash. Straighten the grain before placing the pattern pieces, as loosely woven linen can shift out of shape.

Do you have a specific question about Linen or an application?
Our AI assistant will help you immediately.

Añadido al carrito

Bienvenido de nuevo

0
ART.NÚM.

Todavía tienes 0 artículos en tu carrito de compras.