The unique properties of natural fibre textiles

Natural fibres are all extracted from plant or animal species and are considered to be renewable. Most of our natural fibre textiles are woven from linen or pure wool. Several of our linen fabrics are blends containing wool, silk, jute, cotton or viscose, all of which contribute to suppleness, weight or brilliance.

To work in the most environmentally friendly way, all of our linen fabrics are made in Europe from flax that has been grown, harvested and spun here.

Following the weaving process, the fabrics undergo a number of treatments, such as washing or other mechanical processes, to make them soft and compliant. Our Mano Morbida (‘soft hand’) fabrics have all undergone after-treatments in order to provide character through wrinkles and creases as well as softness.

To work in the most environmentally friendly way, all of our linen fabrics are made in Europe from flax that has been grown, harvested and spun here. The majority of the wool that we use for our fabrics is left untreated in order to keep its natural dirt-repellent properties. Our Dorotea, Paolina and Lana collections are made using upcycled wool, leftover fibers from the production. None of the wool that we use in our production is derived from sheep subjected to muelsing.

Dorotea in colour 3213 for curtains, AstridxFogia Pouf in Chalet.

Natural fibers makes unique properties

The colour of our linen fabrics varies between batches. This depends on what the weather is like during the growing season, as well as during the retting. Both affect the natural colour of the flax. Colour differences present in some of our other materials are also due to natural variations in the textile fibers. In cases where the colours tend to differ excessively, we send out batch samples for approval.

Fabrics made from natural fibers tend to stretch. How much they stretch depends on the dimensions and weight of the fabric. In turn, the weight varies according to ambient humidity and absorption. As a result, natural fibers fabrics tend to stretch during when humidity levels are higher and contract in dry and hot environments.

Small colour variations may sometimes be found in both linen and wool threads. Along with irregularities in texture, such as knots and wads these variations all depend on the production process and the natural properties of the fibers.

Artificial and natural light causes fading and may change the structure of the fabric as well as give the fabric a slightly yellow hue. In situations where the fabric is highly exposed, it is a good idea to line the fabric or select a different fabric with better resistance to the effects of light.

For further information on the properties of our textiles, please read the detailed descriptions of the applications they are best suited for. This information can be found on the back of our sample collections or under Our Fabrics.

Savona in colour 4133 to the right
Torno in colour 3213, the colour in the picture is much lighter.