Linen
Linen is a textile made from the fibers of the flax plant.
A characteristic often associated with linen yarn is the presence of "slubs", or small knots which occur randomly along its length. Slubs are considered as part of the aesthetic appeal of an expensive natural product. In addition, they do not compromise the integrity of the fabric, and therefore they are not viewed as a defect. However, the very finest linen has very consistent diameter threads, with no slubs at all.
The significant cost of linen derives not only from the difficulty of working with the thread, but also because the flax plant itself requires a great deal of attention. In addition, it is difficult to weave without breaking threads. Thus linen is considerably more expensive to manufacture than cotton.
Pros and Cons of Linen
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Pros |
Cons |
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Cool and smooth to the touch |
Wrinkles easily (but it is the linen’s charm) |
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Lint -free |
Low elasticity |
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Softer the more it is washed |
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Ability to absorb and lose water rapidly |
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Dirt, stain and moth resistant |
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Maintenance
Mildew, perspiration, and bleach can damage the fabric, but it is resistant to moths and carpet beetles. Linen is relatively easy to take care of and can be dry-cleaned, machine-washed or steamed.
Linen should not be dried by tumble drying, and it is much easier to iron when damp. Linen wrinkles very easily, and thus some more formal garments require ironing often, in order to maintain perfect smoothness. Nevertheless, the tendency to wrinkle is often considered part of linen's particular "charm", and many modern linen garments are designed to be air-dried on a good clothes hanger and worn without the necessity of ironing.