Understanding Linen

Linen is celebrated for its natural beauty, sustainability, and unique vibrational qualities, making it a timeless and versatile fabric.

Where does it come from? 

Linen is a textile made from the fibers of the flax plant, Linum usitatissimum. The process starts with planting flax in well-drained soil and a temperate climate. The plants grow tall and straight, reaching about 1 meter in height, and are harvested before the seeds fully ripen. The harvested flax undergoes retting, where moisture breaks down the pectins that bind the fibers. This can be done through dew, water, or chemical retting. The retted flax is then broken to separate the fibers, followed by scutching to remove woody parts, and hackling to comb the fibers and remove impurities.

 

How is linen made? 

Linen fibers are spun into yarn, which can be wet-spun for a finer texture or dry-spun for a rougher one. The yarn is then woven into fabric, often using a plain weave. The woven fabric is bleached or dyed, and may undergo beetling for a smooth finish. Finally, the fabric is cut and sewn into various products.

Linen is valued for its durability, absorbency, breathability, and texture. It is strong, long-lasting, and becomes softer with each wash. Known for its natural beauty and sustainability, linen is a timeless and versatile fabric that offers unique benefits, including antibacterial and hypoallergenic properties. The production process, though labor-intensive, results in a fabric that is both elegant, feminine and sustainable.