Linen cloth woven from flax stalks is humanity’s oldest fabric, with the surviving examples dating from 38,000 years ago. There are hundreds of good reasons that flax linen has stayed popular through virtually all of human history. Flax was one of the first domesticated crops, and it was used to wrap Egyptian mummies and clothe medieval queens. Here are a few reasons why flax linen fabric by the yard is far and away the superior choice for your modern home as well.
Hypoallergenic and Antibacterial
Flax linen is naturally free of allergens and gentle on sensitive skin. That’s why it was used to bandage wounds for thousands of years. It’s also perfect for sheets and upholstery because it’s naturally antibacterial. Silica deposits in the fibers, themselves, cause up to a 50% reduction in bacteria on linen surfaces!
Breathable and Practical
Linen is a sturdy cloth, but it also incorporates air into its weave. Like black grasscloth wallpaper, this airy natural weave comes with several notable advantages. It lets water pass through the fabric for a comfortable, breathable feel.
Linen is also easy to wash and care for. Stains easily wash out of the airy fabric, and the fibers dry quickly.
Linen’s durability varies by weight, which is determined by the number of flax fibers woven into every inch of the fabric. At most weights, linen is far more durable than other fabric choices. Flax linen fabric is one of the only materials that regularly survives for tens of thousands of years.
Sustainable Eco-Friendly Option
Flax grows abundantly in a variety of conditions without using a large amount of water, soil or other natural resources. This means that real flax linen is one of the most sustainable fabrics you can use in your home. Unlike vinyl, polyester or other synthetics, linen will break down completely given enough time instead of lingering in the environment.
The process of weaving linen is sustainable, as well. The entire length of the flax stalk is used to weave linen, and no waste is left behind. Cotton cloth, on the other hand, only uses the flowering tops of the cotton plants.
Blends With Any Decor
Choosing linen doesn’t mean sacrificing style for practicality or sustainability. Undyed flax linen is a neutral with gorgeous natural texture. It’s a must for any minimalist or nature-themed room. White linen is a classic choice for a country or farmhouse kitchen. Flax linen also soaks up dye for vibrant color options.
Since linen is woven from natural grasses rather than plastic derivatives, it’s naturally matte and has plenty of visual texture. This matte quality keeps patterns from looking gaudy, no matter how complex they might be. Linen is such a versatile style choice that it’s easy to find upholstery fabric by the yard to suit any design scheme in your home.
When it comes to the fabrics you touch and use every day, go back to the basics. Flax linen fabric is a healthy and sustainable choice that will keep you comfortable for years to come.
