Linen vs Linen-Look

Written By Belinda Sinclair

We talk to so many clients who have fallen in love with the aesthetic that pure linen provides as drapery, as well as the relaxing feel that it evokes when handling the natural fibre. But there are a number of different factors that should be considered when deciding whether Linen is right for you, or if you may want to consider a Linen-look Polyester or Linen/Polyester blend for your curtains. 

Taken from the blog series of James Dunlop Textiles - An Educational Yarn, below are some key characteristics of each to consider when choosing your fabric composition.

LINEN
Plant origin; derived from cellulose fibres that grow inside the stalks of the flax plant.

  • As with cotton it is affected by acidic pollution.

  • Can be affected by mildew which will likely cause the fibre to deteriorate over time.

  • Considered to be the strongest of the natural fibres; if constructed for upholstery it is very durable, particularly when blended with up to 10% nylon.

  • Is regarded as a luxury fibre because of its lustre and texture.

  • It is an absorbent fibre which means it can move with changing humidity levels

  • Linen has moderate sunlight resistance and should be protected by a quality lining when used as a drapery and protected from direct sunlight when used as an upholstery.

POLYESTER
Synthetic fibres of man-made origin, not occurring naturally. Manufactured from different raw materials.

  • Can be manufactured and woven for specific use − from fine sheers to heavy upholsteries, depending on required usage.

  • Drape and handle is excellent if designed for this use.

  • Durability and abrasion resistance is generally very good.

  • Generally has very good UV light resistance.

  • A non-absorbent fibre, it will move very little in humid conditions.

  • Not affected by acidic pollution or mildew.

  • Strong and stable.

  • Wrinkle resistance and recovery is very good.

Reference:
https://jamesdunloptextiles.com/design-news/an-educational-yarn/textile-fibres

At Valley Vogue we love nothing more than hanging a beautiful linen curtain, and it really does speak for itself in terms of style and quality. But if you have that western facing window, tighter budget, or mildew prone area, then we have an extensive range of Polyester or Polyester/Linen blend fabrics that we can recommend as a perfect alternative and can look just as beautiful.

100% Linen

100% Polyester, Linen-Look

Belinda Sinclair
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