Producing linen fabric from the flax plant uses far less water than it takes to produce the same amount of cotton. The flax plant itself can be used for multiple purposes, leaving absolutely no waste as every part of the plant has a function. These attributes make Irish linen one of the most sustainable and environmentally friendly fabrics to use and wear. Linen also becomes more beautiful with age, getting better over time. It is known as the strongest of all natural fibres, ensuring each garment will last for years to come.
All of our fabric is sourced locally here in Ireland, which cuts down massively on our carbon footprint and also supports local industry. As we are a small brand, we work with small order quantities to reduce waste where possible.
SUSTAINABILITY
ON THE SKIN
The fabrics ability to absorb water and conduct heat make it one of the most beautiful, versatile fabrics to wear on the skin. The properties of the fabric make it perfect for all seasons, keeping you cool and dry in the summer months, and conducting heat in cooler climates to maintain body temperature.
HISTORY
The flax plant is one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world, and finds its origins back in Ancient Egypt where it was used as an expression of wealth and class.
Flax has been grown in Ireland for centuries and was once Ireland’s most important industry, at its height employing over 40 percent of the working population in Northern Ireland. In almost every town and village there was a factory or a mill. The two main linen mills situated in Belfast were responsible for producing over half the linen for Ireland and a third of the world’s flax supplies. York Mills in Belfast grew to become the second largest mill in the world giving rise to Belfast have the nickname ‘Linenopolis’.
BEETLED LINEN
Breathing new life into traditions and techniques unique to Ireland is the reason we exist. The ancient process of beetling linen dates back centuries and involves the fabric being dampened and repeatedly beaten with wooden blocks for hours on end. The result is a linen fabric with unexpected structure and a distinctive sheen. We use Irish beetled linen from some of the last remaining beetlers in the world!
NATURAL DYEING
Sustainable, slow processes are what make us come alive. We are proud to work with a natural dyer here in Ireland who uses only natural ingredients, collected rainwater and organic plants. Their dye water is filtered naturally and all matter and food waste is composted to used again for growing more dye plants.