THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO IRISH LINEN: WHAT IT IS, THE BENEFITS AND HOW TO LOOK AFTER IT

What is Irish Linen?

Irish Linen is where tradition and craftsmanship intertwine to create a fabric that has captivated hearts for centuries. With its rich heritage and timeless elegance, Irish Linen weaves a tale of beauty and artistry that stretches back to ancient times. From humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of luxury and refinement, this remarkable fabric has truly stood the test of time and has been crafted for centuries and is one of the most luxurious linen produced in the world, with William Clark & Sons have being at the  forefront of it for over 300 years. 

It's not just a beautiful nostalgic story; the knowledge and skill passed down through generations both in the skill of weaving and also the processing of linen that creates a truly quality product. It's luxurious and gives you something truly special to adore.


What are the benefits of Irish Linen?

With a rich array of benefits, it's no surprise Irish linen has been used for thousands of years. Irish linen is a fantastic temperature regulator and absorbs moisture and excess heat in hot weather, whilst also retaining heat in the cooler months. It has a high natural luster, bringing a gentle aesthetic luxury to fabrics and making it a perfect choice for interiors, whilst also offering the versatility to be used in garments. 

The durability of Irish Linen also makes it a practical and versatile solution for a number of different uses. The inelasticity of flax helps to products retain their shape, whilst also being durable and soft-to-touch. What's more, it's made from natural fibres making it biodegradable.

Unlike most linen products on the market today, our fabrics at William Clark & Sons are crafted and produced in Northern Ireland. All our linen yarns stem from European flax known for it's superior strength and is certified by Irish Linen Guild and Masters of Linen. 

your GUIDE TO IRISH LINEN: the history, BENEFITS AND HOW TO LOOK AFTER IT

What is Irish Linen?

Irish Linen is where tradition and craftsmanship intertwine to create a fabric that has captivated hearts for centuries. With its rich heritage and timeless elegance, Irish Linen weaves a tale of beauty and artistry that stretches back to ancient times. From humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of luxury and refinement, this remarkable fabric has truly stood the test of time and has been crafted for centuries and is one of the most luxurious linen produced in the world, with William Clark & Sons being at the forefront of it for over 300 years. 

Flax, the plant from which Irish Linen is derived, is grown and harvested in the fertile fields of Ireland, where the cool climate and rich soil contribute to its superior qualities. The fibres are then carefully extracted, spun, and woven into a fabric. Known for its natural luster, Irish Linen has a timeless appeal that transcends fashion trends, making it a cherished choice for clothing, household textiles, and heirloom pieces. It's not just a beautiful nostalgic story; the knowledge and skill passed down through generations both in the skill of weaving and also the processing of linen that creates a truly quality product. It's luxurious and gives you something truly special to adore.

What are the benefits of Irish Linen?

It's no surprise Irish linen has been used for thousands of years with it's rich array of benefits. Irish linen is a fantastic temperature regulator and absorbs moisture and excess heat in hot weather, whilst also retaining heat in the cooler months. It has a high natural luster, bringing a gentle aesthetic luxury to fabrics and making it a perfect choice for interiors, whilst also offering the versatility to be used in garments. 

The durability of Irish Linen also makes it a practical and versatile solution for a number of different uses. The inelasticity of flax helps to products retain their shape, whilst also being durable and soft-to-touch. What's more, it's made from natural fibres making it biodegradable.

Unlike most linen products on the market today, our fabrics at William Clark & Sons are crafted and produced in Northern Ireland. All our linen yarns stem from European flax known for it's superior strength and is certified by Irish Linen Guild and Masters of Linen. 

How to look after Irish Linen

Linen is an incredible fabric that can last for decades when properly looked after, so it's important you know how to care for it. Firstly, pay close attention to the care symbols on your products, these can vary from product to product so reading the labels is a great place to start. 

Over time, sunlight has an effect on all natural fabrics. This is most commonly seen when colour fades, but sunlight will also weaken the strength of your fabric. To help reduce the impact, you can follow these steps:

1. For Curtains and Roman blinds, using a good blackout fabric for lining will stop sunlight streaming through the back of your fabric. 
2. Using blinds, sheers and shades as a secondary window dressing will hugely reduce the impact of sunlight on your drapes as they help absorb sunlight before it hits your curtain fabric. 
3. In summer months, it's a good idea to alternate your curtains every so often. 
4. Avoid putting your linen in a room with direct overhead sunlight. 

Irish Linen is not just a fabric; it is a testament to the timeless artistry and craftsmanship of Ireland. From its humble beginnings to becoming a symbol of luxury and refinement, this remarkable fabric has stood the test of time, woven with dedication and expertise for centuries. Its benefits, including temperature regulation, natural luster, and durability, make it a versatile choice for clothing, household textiles, and interiors. When properly cared for, Irish Linen can last for decades, and by following simple steps to protect it from sunlight, you can ensure its longevity and beauty. So, embrace the allure of Irish Linen and let its elegance and quality grace your world, connecting you to a legacy of excellence that continues to thrive today.