|
This fibre is obtained from the stem of a plant 80-120 cm. high, with few
branches and small flowers, with a colour which can change from white to dark
blue, which flowers for only one day. The linen plant is pulled from the ground
to obtain the maximum fibre length. After the retting phase the textile fibre is
seperated from the left-over wood and is then combed to eliminate impurities.
Linen fibres are
mixed with cotton, wool, silk, viscose and polyester these mixtures of fibres
allow for many different fabrics to be created. The combination of two fibres
leads to a different "feel", or a structure and appearance different to that of
the fibres on their own.
The
manufacturers of linen in France, Belgium and Holland are the best and carry the
mark of quality, "MASTER OF LINEN". Linen is also cultivated in Eastern Europe,
Russia, Brasil, China and Baltic countries, but is of inferior quality to that
of western Europe.
Linen Traits
With a 70%
cellulose composition, it doesn't cause allergies, absorbs dampness and allows
the skin to breathe: therefore, it is rsuitable for the production of summer
garments, bed sheets, table cloths, towels and handkerchiefs. Highly resistant,
especially if wet, can be washed many times without changing, on the contrary it
becomes softer, which is of the utmost importance for clothes which are
regularly washed. Has very low elasticity and therefore linen fabrics do not
lose their shape. Hasn't hairs and can therefore be used to dry dishes.
How to treat linen
garments
Wash white
articles in the washing machine at 60°C, and coloured at lower temperatures.
Iron white garments damp at a standard heat, also steam-iron, first the back
side, then the right side. Coloured garments especially if dark, should only be
ironed on the back side. Starching the fabric is unnecessary as linen takes its
original shape once ironed. If you hang above the bath-tub garments folded in a
suitcase they return to their original shape: steam helps to soften the creases.
For clean garments it is advisable to follow the instructions on the label, and
in so doing avoid unpleasant surprises.
|
Textile
fibres
Internat.
fibres
