Types of linen farbics from Linen From Flax Seed to Woven Cloth

Linen is one of the oldest and most versatile natural fibers in the world — but not all linen is the same. From the weave structure to the dyeing method, the type of linen fabric you choose dramatically affects how it feels, how long it lasts, and how it looks in your home.

This guide covers the most important types of linen fabric — with a focus on what matters most for linen bedding, home textiles, and everyday use.

1. Softened (Washed) Linen

Softened linen — also called washed or stonewashed linen — is pre-washed during production to break down the stiff fibers and create a relaxed, lived-in texture from day one. This is the most popular type for linen bedding because it feels immediately comfortable without a break-in period.

• Soft and relaxed feel from first use
• Slightly crinkled, casual aesthetic
• Gets even softer with every wash
• Ideal for: duvet covers, pillowcases, bed sheets

→ Shop our softened French linen bedding collection

2. Yarn-Dyed Linen

Yarn-dyed linen is dyed at the fiber level — before weaving — which means the color penetrates deeply into each thread. The result is richer, more dimensional color with significantly better fade resistance compared to piece-dyed alternatives.

• Deeper, more saturated color
• Excellent fade resistance over years of washing
• Slightly more structured texture
• Ideal for: striped patterns, duvet cover sets, long-term investment pieces

→ Explore yarn-dyed French linen duvet cover sets

3. Plain-Dyed (Piece-Dyed) Linen

Plain-dyed linen is woven first, then dyed as a finished fabric. This method produces smooth, uniform color and a slightly softer initial feel. It's the most common dyeing method and offers the widest range of colors.

• Smooth, consistent color across the fabric
• Softer initial feel than yarn-dyed
• Available in the widest color range
• Ideal for: solid-color bedding, pillowcases, flat sheets

4. Damask Linen

Damask linen features an elaborate woven pattern — typically floral or geometric — created by contrasting matte and lustrous threads within the same fabric. Historically used for fine table linens and luxury home textiles.

• Reversible woven pattern (not printed)
• Lustrous, formal appearance
• Heavier weight than standard linen
• Ideal for: tablecloths, napkins, decorative home textiles

5. Cambric Linen

Cambric is a fine, sheer, tightly woven linen with a smooth finish. Named after the French city of Cambrai where it was first produced, it's one of the lightest and most delicate types of linen fabric.

• Very fine, lightweight weave
• Smooth, almost silky surface
• Ideal for: handkerchiefs, lingerie, lightweight summer garments

6. Canvas & Duck Linen

Canvas and duck linen are heavy, tightly woven fabrics made with hard-twisted yarns. Originally used for sails and tents, today they're used for bags, upholstery, and heavy-duty home applications.

• Very durable and stiff
• Water-resistant when treated
• Ideal for: bags, upholstery, outdoor textiles

Which Type of Linen Is Best for Bedding?

For linen bedding, the two most important types are:

• Softened/washed linen — best for immediate comfort and a relaxed aesthetic
• Yarn-dyed linen — best for long-term color retention and richer visual depth

At SCANDALINEN, we use 100% French linen — woven from European flax grown in Normandy — for all our bedding. Every piece is OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified, free from harmful chemicals, and made to order in our Hanoi workshop.

→ Why is linen bedding more expensive than cotton? Read our honest answer.

→ Hemp vs Linen: Which natural fiber is better for bedding?