Lesson · Linen

• Flax is the plant. Linen is the cloth.Linen is woven from the long fibers inside the stem of the flax plant.
• Mostly grown in EuropeAbout three-quarters of the world’s flax grows in a coastal band from northern France to the Netherlands, usually with no irrigation.
• Nothing wastedThe stalks rest in the field while dew loosens the fibers. Every part of the plant is used: fiber, seeds and woody pieces.
• Cool and quick-dryingLinen absorbs moisture and dries faster than cotton, which is why it feels cool in the heat.
• Stronger when wetOne of the strongest natural fibers. It gains strength when wet and gets softer with every wash.
• What to look forMasters of FLAX FIBRE™: grown in Europe. Masters of LINEN™: made in Europe, field to fabric. GOTS: organic. OEKO-TEX: tested for harmful substances.
• CareWash cool, skip the dryer, iron while damp, or keep the creases. They’re part of its character.

Sources: Alliance for European Flax-Linen & Hemp · Linen (Wikipedia) · Ethical Consumer