Linen

Also Flax - An important type of bast fiber, the plant is called the flax plant and the product is called linen. Flax is obtained from the plant stalk which grows in many world areas. It is the oldest textile fiber known in the vegetable group and it may attain a length of about forty inches. The name of the plant is Linum usitatissimum.

The plant is raised for two purposes, the fiber and the seed. The latter is known commercially as linseed and it is used as linseed meal for animal feed, for birdseed, and in cake form in the chemical industry.

The fibers are manipulated into yarn and cloth, and the fabric is used for tablecloths, napkins, doilies, runners, crash, toweling, suiting material, twine, canvas, aprons, shoe thread, fishing tackle and nets, cigarette paper, currency and bank note paper, and similar products.

The chief flax—producing countries are Russia, which supplies 75% of the world output; Belgium, which raises the best flax in the world; Ireland, where the best workmanship is found; the United States, Holland, South Africa, France, India, Japan, China, and Asia Minor.

In this country, Oregon is the leader for fiber and seed, while Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Washington, and Kentucky are interested mainly in the seed.

Fiber flax is sown about 85 to 100 pounds to the acre. The straws grow straight to a height of 30 to 40 inches. The seed branches are seen at the top only. The Oregon fiber is high in quality and compares favorably with the well—known Belgian thread fiber known as Courtrai stock.

Strong lustrous yarn or fabric of smooth-surfaced flax fibers. Can be either plain weave or a damask weave for table linens. Used for wearing apparel, household articles, fancy work.

• Handkerchief Linen - Sheer, fine linen in plain weave.
• Irish Linen — Fine, lightweight linen made in Ireland; often still made by hand.
• Spun Linen - The finest hand—woven linen, used for handkerchiefs, neckwear, etc.