Grow
Flax seed is broadcast planted in early spring.
Harvest
Flax is pulled from the roots to ensure maximum fiber length when the stalks are about ⅔ yellow.
Rett (means to rot)
Dried stalks are laid out on grass (dew retting) or submerged in water (water retting) to grow a fungus on the stalks. This process breaks down the husk to enable fiber extraction. Dew Retting creates a silver color flax while Water Retting creates a blond color.
Break
Dried Retted Flax is crunched or pinched to break apart the husk of the flax beginning to expose the flax inside the plant.
Scutch
Fibers are scutched or rubbed with a wooden knife which removes any chaff or pieces of remaining husk caught in the fibers.
Hackle
Fibers are drawn straight through two or more flax hackles with tines getting more narrow with each hackle. This aligns the fibers straight and separates the short fibers (tow) from the long fiber (line). Line are soft fibers that we use for yarn and eventually cloth. Tow are more coarse and used for cordage and other materials.
Spin
Line (long flax fibers) are spun into a single.The yarn on the bobbin is now linen. Singles can be used directly or plied.
Scour
Linen yarn is strongly washed to set twist and wash fibers.
Final Project
Your linen is now ready to be used in a final project. Linen can be used to weave, knit, crochet, or almost anything your imagination can think of.
Benefits of Linen
Linen is a strong, lightweight, and breathable natural fiber made from flax. It is remarkably durable, yet softens with use, becoming more comfortable over time rather than wearing out. Linen helps regulate temperature, keeping you cool in warm weather and comfortable year-round, and its natural moisture-wicking qualities allow it to stay fresh between washes. Grown with fewer inputs than many other fibers, linen is a practical and responsible choice—well suited to everyday use, thoughtful making, and a slower, more intentional way of living.