WHICH COUNTRIES PRODUCE THE BEST LINEN?
The best linen is grown in Belgium, France and the Netherlands, it is known to be of superior quality, because of the unique qualities of the region where it is grown.
WHY? THE CLIMATE
The ideal region for growing flax spans as far south as northern France and toward northerly regions of the Netherlands. Loamy soil, and a temperate oceanic climate characterizes the best flax-growing land, which stretches across this 90,000 hectares wide Atlantic coastal belt. Flax farming throughout this zone has a long history, with over 5,000 farms producing high quality and traditionally grown flax linen.
Because of this ideal environment, flax grown here produces the longest fibers with the least amount of inputs such as fertilizers or pesticides—and all without irrigation. Because of natural humidity and rainfall, flax stalks can be retted—fermented to separate the fibers—in the fields and without chemicals.
In addition to flax farming, traditional flax belt processes of scutching, spinning, and weaving have been passed down through generations to ensure a uniquely quality product and respect for the fiber.
Flax can, of course, be grown in other parts of the world, such as Eastern Europe and China. However, since flax is not native to these places, more inputs are required to keep pests away and to initiate the retting process, and usually this results in an inferior product.
HOW WE SOURCE OUR LINEN
L O V E J O Y linen is grown in France.
95% of our linen products are made from certified European Flax®, which is grown in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands.
Our linen is OEKO-TEX® as well as GOTS certified—these certifications confer a promise of organic farming practices and full traceability, and stringent tests for banned and regulated substances that can be harmful to your health.
A little more?
Flax is grown in this region because the climate and soil are ideal for the plant:
- Climate: The mild North Sea climate with alternating sun and rain is perfect for growing flax.
- Soil: The rich soil in the region is ideal for growing flax.
- Location: Belgium is in the middle of the region that stretches from Caen to Amsterdam, which is known for producing some of the world's best flax.
- History: Flax has been cultivated in the region since the Middle Ages.
Flax is a sustainable fiber that is known for its quality, softness, and breathability. It is used to make linen fabric, ropes, tents, mailbags, and construction material. Flax oil was also used by Van Eyck to develop oil painting.
- The flax flowers for just one day a year.
- The first stage of flax fiber processing is retting, which breaks down the pectose that binds the textile fibers to the woody part of the stem.
- In 2020, about 150,000 hectares of flax was sown in Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, which represented 80% of the worldwide flax production