Linen fabric – how to choose that Perfect One?

Linen fabrics come in a variety of types and finishing methods, so it is not as simple as can be imagined at first. Here we will try to help and explain in simple terms about linen and make sure you will choose the perfect piece for you!

Linen fabric natural colour is light grey, although can slightly differ in shades due to the region it is grown and produced. First of all you need to know that linen fabric is produced out of flax plant in particular out of plant stem which is machined to tiny long fibres, cleaned and spun. Once linen threads are finished the weaving process can start and linen fabric is made.

According to the weave strength and pattern, fabric can be produced in many different variations and widths. Fabric can be of one colour or many different ones combined, such way the most beautiful designs are created.  By combining patterns and/or colours Jacquard fabrics are made.
At this stage linen fabric is at its natural – tough, a bit at a harder end. It is most suitable for making table cloth and runners, napkins, kitchen towels, aprons and more. Natural linen fabric is easy to care for, very easy to wash and iron. After few washes it will become softer and get that special linen shine! Please note that natural linen fabric at the start will slightly shrink once washed.

The next stage of linen fabric is softening process which involves stonewash and mechanical softening. Once softening is done linen becomes very soft and highly absorbent. Depending on the thickness and weave pattern of fabric it could be soft and thin or fluffy and thick. This type of fabric is mostly used for bedding, bathroom towels and robes, throws and blankets and so on. Linen bedding or clothing is made from the highest grade of fabric and is highly sought after.

The more pure linen is softened, fluffed or wrinkled – the more it shrinks initially from its natural size and does not like ironing as it might ruin the fluffiness by trying to expand and flatten back to its natural stage.