Where Does Linen Come From?

Posted: 02 July 2025

Let's take a closer look at what makes this fabric so special

Today, we're tracing linen back to its roots

Linen is a timeless fabric that looks beautiful, feels dreamy, and helps you sleep soundly. But have you ever stopped to wonder where it actually comes from?

What is linen made from?

Linen is made from the fibres of the flax plant, a blue-flowered crop that’s been grown for thousands of years. It’s not the seeds but the stalk of the plant that’s carefully harvested and transformed into yarn, then woven into the fabric you know and love.

Turning flax into linen is a surprisingly hands-on process that takes time, care, and craftsmanship:

- The flax is grown, pulled from the ground and dried.

- The stalks are soaked and softened (a process called retting).

- The fibres are separated, combed, spun into yarn and finally woven.

The result? A breathable fabric that only gets softer and more beautiful with time.

Where is linen grown?

A lot of good quality linen starts its journey in France. Western Europe has the perfect climate for flax to thrive and is known for producing some of the world’s finest.

We work exclusively with 100% certified French flax linen, woven with care, to make sure you receive the highest quality linen bedding possible.

Why we love linen (and why it might be the perfect fabric for you)

We chose to work with linen for lots of reasons - but mostly because it feels good (in every sense of the word)

- It's naturally breathable, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter.

- It’s kind to the earth, needing less water and fewer resources than other fabrics.

- It’s strong and long-lasting, softening beautifully over time instead of wearing out.

What is linen used for in the home?

Linen is such a versatile material, and that's one of the reasons we love it so much. We have ranges in...

- Bedding that helps you sleep deeper, naturally

- Wear that moves with you, not against you

- Curtains and cushions that bring a little everyday luxury

- Dining linen that adds elegance to shared meals

No matter where or how you use it, linen brings a sense of calm and ease to your space.

How to spot quality linen?

Here’s what to look for when choosing your fabric:

  • 100% flax linen (no synthetics, ever)
  • Grown and woven in Europe
  • Stone-washed for softness
  • Free from harmful chemicals (look for Oeko-Tex certification)

    These are the details that matter, because you’ll feel the difference every day.

Is linen better than cotton?

Linen and cotton are both natural fibres, but linen is stronger, more breathable, and lasts longer. While cotton may feel softer at first, linen gets better with every wash. It’s also more sustainable, using fewer resources and returning to the earth more gently at the end of its life. If you’re looking for bedding that works with your body, not against it, linen is a beautiful place to start.

What is linen fabric?

Linen is a natural fabric made from flax fibres, known for its strength, breathability, and relaxed, timeless texture.

Are linen sheets good?

Yes they are! Linen sheets are breathable, durable, and get softer with every wash, making them a great investment if you're looking for comfort that will last.

Where is linen grown?

Linen comes from the flax plant, usually grown in Western Europe, particularly France and Belgium, with France being the world leader in flax production.