Definition: Linen is a textile made from the bast fibers of the flax plant. Textiles in a linen weave texture are colloquially referred to as “linen,” even when made of cotton, hemp, or other non-flax fibers. True linen made from flax fibers is believed to be some of the earliest textile materials ever developed and may date back over 30,000 years.

Use: True linen made from flax (and other bast fibers such as hemp, ramie, jute or nettle) has a long staple length, which produces a high-quality fabric that is both soft and strong. Linen is naturally cool to the touch and gets softer the more it is washed. Linen made with flax fibers is stronger than cotton, but less elastic. The fabric wrinkles easily and linen yarn has characteristic slubs -- small, irregular lumps, which occur randomly along the yarn. Both wrinkles and slubs are considered part of the “charm” of linen and the aesthetic appeal of a quality natural product.

Sustainability: Linen (and other bast fibers) provide a range of positive benefits for the environment: most cultivation is rainfed with no irrigation needed, grows on marginal land (not competing with food), create by-products such as oil or medicine, and compostable at the end-of-life. Bast fibres absorb more CO2 per hectare than any forest or commercial crop making them an ideal carbon sink and the rotation period of flax is seven years, helping to increase yields without exhausting land resources. Although cultivation and production methods can vary, generally linen is seen as a renewable cellulose biomass with limited environmental impact compared to other fiber feedstocks. Additionally, linen has low-impact care for the wearer -- the fabric naturally resists dirt and stains, can be cleaned in cold water and air-dried. Depending on how the fabric was processed and finished, linen fabric can be compostable at end-of-life.

Definition:  Tencel fabric is a high-quality, eco-friendly textile made from wood pulp, usually sourced from eucalyptus trees. It is known for its exceptional softness, breathability, and smooth texture. The fabric is produced through a closed-loop process that recycles water and solvents, minimizing environmental impact. Tencel is highly absorbent, moisture-wicking, and gentle on the skin, making it a popular choice for both clothing and home textiles. Its durability and sustainable production make it an attractive option for those seeking both comfort and environmental responsibility.

Use:  Tencel fabric is widely used in a variety of applications due to its desirable properties. In clothing, it is popular for making shirts, blouses, dresses, and activewear, thanks to its softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking abilities that ensure comfort and ease of wear. In home textiles, Tencel is favored for items such as bed linens, pillowcases, and curtains because of its smooth texture and color retention. Its gentle, hypoallergenic nature also makes it suitable for sensitive skin, enhancing its appeal in both everyday wear and luxury home furnishings. The fabric’s durability and sustainable production practices further contribute to its growing popularity in the textile industry.

Sustainability:  Tencel fabric is renowned for its sustainability, making it a preferred choice for eco-conscious consumers. It is produced from wood pulp, often sourced from fast-growing, responsibly managed eucalyptus, beech, or spruce trees. The manufacturing process utilizes a closed-loop system where water and solvents are recycled and reused, significantly reducing environmental impact and minimizing waste. This process also uses less water compared to traditional cotton production. Additionally, Tencel is biodegradable, breaking down naturally over time and contributing less to landfill waste. These factors collectively contribute to Tencel’s reputation as an environmentally friendly alternative in the textile industry.