Linen is a strong, lightweight and absorbent textile made from the fibers of the flax plant; a beautiful, blue-flowered crop most commonly found across Western Europe. One of the world’s oldest textiles, it can be traced back thousands of years to ancient civilizations. A greater amount of care and time goes into harvesting flax in comparison to other natural fibers, such as cotton. Retting is a critical operation, influencing the quality and quantity of each farmer’s harvest. It is the process of leaving flax in the field after it’s pulled so that it is exposed to micro-organisms and moisture; this facilitates a natural deconstruction of pectins and loosening of the fibers which are bound to the woody stems. Flax fibers are not elastic, so weaving them without breaking the threads requires skill and attention.

80% of the world’s linen production is in Western Europe, where a temperate climate provides the ideal conditions for growing the flax plant. We make a conscious effort to source our linen as locally as possible – even as close as Ireland, where our Baird McNutt linen is designed and finished using traditional methods.

Unlike conventional cotton, the crop requires significantly less water to grow. Its watering needs are 99.9% covered by rainwater. Its cultivation demands minimal-to-no pesticide use, reducing environmental pollutants and promoting healthier ecosystems. Because the plant is so fast-growing, the crops also produce high yields. It can be planted close together, taking up a considerably smaller amount of land than other crops and, once harvested, its root remnants can restore vital nutrients back to the soil. When grown in its ideal geographical zone, the cultivation of flax produces no waste. All parts of the plant are used: the long and short fibers and seeds are made into textiles, paper, varnish, oil, animal fodder and biomaterials. Not to mention that one hectare of flax can take 3.7 tonnes of CO2 out of the atmosphere. Being plant based, the fabric can break down naturally, too, returning to the earth without leaving behind harmful residues, and can be reprocessed, for an even gentler environmental footprint.

Beyond its sustainable properties, linen is exceptionally durable and becomes more supple with every use. It’s breathable and cool in warmer temperatures, thanks to its natural long fibers that allow the air to circulate through and around the fabric. This is why it feels so comfortable to wear and sleep in when it’s hot. It can also be up to three times stronger than cotton so, when well cared for, it can last for a long, long time.