Classic interior design often includes linen. It is ancient in origin, made from the fibres of the flax plant, and is one of our very earliest fabrics. It has been known as the fabric of Royalty and has not lost its popularity over time. The flax plant has long cellulose fibres which have a natural vegetable wax coating, which gives a beautiful sheen to woven linen fabrics, which are not only strong and fade resistant, but soft, light, and breathable, as well. The It is practical, as well as beautiful, so it has been used as both a luxury and utilitarian fabric in the home. It has a slightly bumpy texture with a smooth finish. Bedding was one of it’s most common uses, as well as napkins and tablecloths, because it is about 30% stronger than cotton, but not as strong as silk. Used as a symbol of affluence and even used as currency, its strength and durability have allowed it to stand the test of time. Even with its connotations of wealth, it is easy to care for. If you were searching for the perfect fabric for your interior design project update, much of what you’d look for is present in linen. Legendary comfort as well as strength and beauty are what attract us. Linen has been preferred for centuries as a canvas for fine oil paintings due to its strength and durability. We would not have the works of the Grand Masters today had it not been for the unique qualities of linen. Linen is one of the world’s oldest textiles, being used in Eqypt about 5000 B.C. in the wrappings of Egyptian kings mummies, which have found to be intact to this day. It is much stronger and glossier than cotton. It is now used for everyday apparel, as well as high end luxury household items. The English word “line” is derived from the fact that linen thread was originally used to determine a straight line. the fabric is generally off white when initially produced, but does take dye well and retains colour over time and usage. Linen does wrinkle easily, though, but is easily ironed. Linen clothing is distinctive in that it does look wrinkled, but that is actually part of its charm. It wears like iron and does improve with age. It also reduces static electricity. Adding even a small amount of linen to a fabric will reduce or even eliminate static. This ability of linen to attract moisture will cause custom draperies to change in length a little in seasons when the humidity is higher.
Ireland, at one time, was the centre of European linen production, and Belfast was referred to as “Linenopolis” due to the extensive linen trade. Cotton was easier and less costly to produce, though, so it surpassed linen eventually. Worldwide, China produced the most linen nowadays, but Ireland, Italy and Belgium still produce quite a lot. The uS produces a significant amount of linen which is used for homewares. Four variations in weaving techniques produce the different types of linen fabric available today. Damask linen is produced on a jacquard loom and is delicate and ornate, like embroidery, so it is used for decorative items, rather than daily use. Dish towels, cotton towels, and hand towels are made from Plain Woven linen, which is loosely woven. it’s durability suit it for everyday use. Loosely woven linen is the least durable but is highly absorbent so it has very utilitarian uses. Sheeting Linen can be made into wearing apparel because it is untextured, soft, and has a close weave.It also has a high thread count. its ability to wick moisture away from the body is legendary.
When used for draperies, linen, like silk, has an aristocratic elegance, as well as a crisp, clean appeal. Draperies made from linen will last for years and look great while doing it. Linen has a natural lustre. It could be called a living fabric because it absorbs humidity, and air flows through it, providing privacy and relief from the heat of summer cool in summer. This characteristic of absorbing humidity also causes linen to expand and contract with seasonal changes so if you are the type of home owner who must have everything just so, linen is not for you. Linen draperies will lengthen and shorten slightly with changes in the weather and it does have a tendency to wrinkle. Draperies used in interior decorating and design can be designed to remain stationary, thus avoiding this effect. 
Linen can be bleached to pure white and table linens of high quality are made from linen. The natural colour of linen ranges from ivory and ecru to tan and gray. Linen has anti-allergenic properties, so it can be used next to the skin in bed linens. Bed linens made from pure linen feel soft and natural. They can stand up to years of washing and become softer in feel and appearance over the years. The natural wrinkled look is part of the charm. Linen will shrink a little when it’s tumble dried so excessive drying is discouraged. In fact, it is recommended that custom draperies never be washed or even dry cleaned. No matter how carefully it is done, they will simply never hang as beautifully ever again. They should be vacuumed regularly and that is now difficult to do. This wonderful fabric works well year-round, keeping us warm in winter and cool in summer. Relaxed, yet elegant style in home decorating can be achieved through the use of this impressive material.It is an earthy, tactile, yet sophisticated fabric. The fibers are long, up to 150 centimetres long, and extremely strong, so the fabric does not fray or rub. When an interior designer uses linen fabrics in upholstery, we gain durability five times more resistant to abrasion than cotton. Also, linen does not pill or stretch. Another desirable characteristic is linen’s resistance to static electricity. Condo dwellers may be attracted to this quality to help compensate for the dryness of electric heat. Linen makes exceptional quality table linens…hence the traditional term for cloth items used in table settings. 
Fade resistant and colour fast, mildew and moth resistant, as well a non-allergenic, linen used in contemporary or traditional interior decorating is an impressive tool. With this impressive array of practical physical attributes, linen more than makes up for its tendency to wrinkle and fluctuate in size. Either 100% linen or linen in combination with rayon are good choices for custom draperies.
Since 1993 Mulberry Interiors, headed by colour specialist, Marguerite Roberts, has been creating residential interiors in Oakville, Mississauga, Burlington, Brampton, Milton, Georgetown, Etobicoke, western Toronto, North York, and Vaughn. We specialize in residential interior design and decorating and are at our most creative when we use colour as our theme. We offer a full range of interior design services such as fine furnishings, custom window treatments, including blinds and shutters, choosing paint colours, space planning, soft furnishings, area carpets, artwork and accessories. Call Mulberry Interiors now at (905) 849-6423 to book a consultation. We look forward to working with you to increase your enjoyment of your home.
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