Linen paper

Kristen Shepard
Interior Materials
Gaines

Linen is one of the most commonly used natural fibers. It is made from the fibers of flax, one of the oldest agricultural plants in the world. Linen has been utilized by people for thousands of years. The Egyptians wrapped their mummified bodies in linen. The Grecian women wore flowing dresses made of the fiber. The Romans used this fiber for clothing, napkins, towels, table cloths, and bedding. The generic term “linens” for sheets and pillow cases came from the one time common use to make fine fabric. These items are typically used of cotton or synthetic fibers. Linen has so many different uses and benefits compared to other common fibers.

First, linen is a very ecologically sound fabric. While only the best fibers of the flax plant are used for the fabric, the left over parts aren’t wasted. They are used in everything from soap to paper to cattlefeed. The production of linen fabric uses five to twenty times less water and energy than the production of cotton or other synthetic fabrics. Linen fabrics are recyclable and biodegradable. Linen is usually white to ivory and can vary from almost silk-like to sack-like linen.

Second, flax yarns and fabrics increase about twenty percent in strength on wetting. Therefore, linen is stronger when being washed resulting in greater longevity. Linen textiles become softer over time and improve in comfort. When in contact with skin, linen absorbs perspiration through the nodes along the length of the fabric. It swells and then releases the moisture to the outside air by evaporation. It is highly hygroscopic, meaning linen rapidly absorbs and yields moisture. It can evaporate water as quickly as a pond surface. Linen absorbs up to twenty percent its own weight in moisture, while still feeling dry. This is the reason it always feels cool and fresh. Linen is non-static, lint free, non-allergenic, naturally repels insects and gives UV protection.

Third, linen is known for the incredible durability and long life. The tensile strength of a thread is twice as high as cotton and three times that of wool. Linen is a great filter protecting against chemicals, noise, dust, etc. The fabric can reduce gamma radiation by about half and protects humans from solar radiation. It is resistant to fungus and bacteria, and can be an effective barrier for some diseases. Wearing linen can help get rid of some skin diseases. It has been found that bedridden patients do not develop bed sores when linen sheets are used. Linen has been helpful in treating a number of allergic disorders. Linen also possesses high air permeability and heat conductivity. The heat conductivity of linen is five times as high as that of wool and nineteen times as that of silk.

In conclusion, linen has been a very useful fabric for thousands of years. Its durability, cleanliness, and eco-friendly properties make it an essential fabric for our living environment. With the special wrinkle-resistant finishes, preventing the fabric from creasing, linen has recieved a better reputation. Linen has become more popular for upholstery and draperies within the last five to ten years. Linen will continue to rise and become more of a main stay product in the design community.