Linen is a type of fabric spun from long fibers taken from the stem of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum). The fibers are combed and the longest strands are used to create linen. The shorter strands are used for other materials. The fibers are wet, then wound into thin ribbons before being strung upon spools and cooled. The fibers are kept wet during the winding process because linen is more flexible when damp, and is very resilient to moisture. This is very noticeable in completed linen products, as linen can absorb over 20% more moisture than cotton before beginning to feel wet. The result is a fabric which breathes well even in hot conditions. Linen also releases moisture quickly, so it dries very fast. Linen is not stretchy and also resistant to high temperatures. However, linen is prone to wrinkling. Linen is often used in products such as table clothes and bed sheets. Overall linen is a durable and cool fabric, despite some downsides in the cosmetic departments.

"Linen." How Products Are Made. 1999. Encyclopedia.com. 26 Sep. 2016 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>.
"Important Facts You Should Know About Linen." Schweitzerlinen. N.p., 31 July 2015. Web. 26 Sept. 2016.
"Facts About Linen." Epic Linen. N.p., 1 Sept. 2015. Web. 26 Sept. 2016.