• Linen is a valued fabric that's been used since Biblical times.linen image by Silver Bromide from Fotolia.com
  
  Linen is made from flax plants. In order to create the fabric, the flax plats need to be harvested at the point just before the plant begins to create seeds. After crushing and separating the fibers, you can spin the flax into linen. The resulting fabric is soft and durable. Linen has many properties and uses that continue to make the fabric valued today.
  
  

Cellulose

• Linen is similar to cotton in that it is comprised of cellulose, or plant fiber. It is vulnerable to acid and does not react well to bleach.
  
  

Strength

• The fibers from which linen is made are strong--stronger even than cotton. The fibers are very straight and also have little lint.
  
  

Color

• Before the linen fabric is dyed, the fabric is naturally a bluish-gray or white. However, the fabric does take dye well.
  
  

Softness

• The linen fiber is soft to the touch. After the fabric is worn over time, the fabric becomes even softer.
  
  

Clothing

• Linen is a popular fabric choice for clothing. The fabric is a welcome during summer months. Because of its loose weave, it allows air to penetrate, keeping you cool in summer. The downside is that the fabric does wrinkle easily, requiring it to be ironed after being worn. Some designers such as Ralph Lauren capitalize on this fact and state on the label of some linen articles of clothing: "guaranteed to wrinkle."
  
  

Linens

• Linen is not used just for clothing. Because the fabric is so durable, it works well for tablecloths and napkins, toweling, as well as for twine. The fiber makes a durable and soft thread as well.
  
  

In History

• Linen was dyed purple and was reserved for royalty in ancient Asia. Over time, linen was used for shirts and petticoats and underwear, thanks to its softness and durability.