It's that certain something in your lingerie and bed linen. It is the oldest cultivated plant in human history. And it's a comfortably cool alternative to cotton (as I'm sure you already know). Long the fabric of choice in warm and tropical climates, linen has inexorably become one of the most popular fabrics for every season developed. Thanks to its hollow fibers, the medium-weight fabric forms a natural insulating layer - cooling in summer and warming in winter. Appreciated for its durability and versatility, this fabric offers far more than its airy, light reputation would suggest.
The most important facts about flax
About a meter tall, the flax plant - Linum usitatissimum - is found in cooler climates around the world, from India to western Europe, with its glossy leaves and light blue flowers. The robust stems of the plants are soaked, which causes the fibers to ferment naturally, known as roasting ( rotting ). The result is a shimmering fiber that looks like blonde hair - hence the term "flaxen blonde". Our flax is sourced from European mills and woven into bedding in Portugal. And even though the manual spinning wheels and looms have been replaced by modern machines, our linen products continue to live up to the high quality standards and heritage of these traditional Portuguese products.
Coveted for centuries
The lineage of attribution of linen as a fabric can be traced back to the area of modern-day Georgia, where fabric made from wild flax fibers has been found and dated to the Upper Paleolithic (about 40,000 years ago). Industrial linen manufacture was pioneered by the ancient Egyptians, who valued the fabric for its purity and breathability in desert climates. In fact, the fabric was so popular that when Tutankhamun's tomb was opened, completely intact linen veils were discovered that were given as grave goods. In the 17th century, Ireland was the main trading point for luxury linen products, known for the intricate jacquard and lace patterns that were prized by the upper class.
Better than ever
The modern linen industry has greatly facilitated the original manual manufacturing process, but linen is still a laborious process to produce today - although this particular fabric is worth the effort. In addition to its cooling properties, linen is also dirt-repellent and lint-free. In addition, the production of linen has a lower ecological footprint than other natural fibers. Our linen products are pre-washed in small amounts to loosen the fibres, giving the fabric an incredibly soft finish. Although linen is stronger and more durable than cotton, it becomes more supple with each wash and develops its distinct, luxurious texture. Light and airy in summer, elegant and comfortable in autumn - a timeless fabric, woven in a luxurious tradition.