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This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and quilting message board “Sew What’s New,” which was retired in August 2007. It is being provided by “Sew What’s Up,” which serves as the new home for many members of “Sew What’s New.”
From: ninifav
Date: 06-07-2007, 01:07 AM (1 of 8)
Can anyone tell me the difference between regular linen and Irish linen?? I have a skirt and jacket that has "Irish linen" on the label...
User: ninifav
Member since: 09-06-2004
Total posts: 204
From: DorothyL
Date: 06-07-2007, 07:30 AM (2 of 8)
Oddly enough, I think it has to do with the place of origin.
The Irish have a reputation for weaving the finest linen.

Dorothy
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002
Total posts: 3883
From: MaryW
Date: 06-07-2007, 08:33 AM (3 of 8)
I think Irish linen is heavier and more expensive. It is apparently the best money can buy.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: DorothyL
Date: 06-07-2007, 11:34 AM (4 of 8)
From Silk Road Textile Merchants

Irish Linen has qualities which make it particularly desirable. The soft water in Irish streams, the fineness of the yarns achieved by Irish spinners and the skills of the weavers, handed down through generations, produces linen which is especially soft and beautiful. And of course this hand finishing comes at a price.

It's the water.
I have a great Irish and water story but I'll save it for another time.
Dorothy
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002
Total posts: 3883
From: MaryW
Date: 06-07-2007, 11:44 AM (5 of 8)
Dorothy, is there soap involved?
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005
Total posts: 2542
From: material_pakrat
Date: 06-07-2007, 06:35 PM (6 of 8)
I dont know if it is applicable to clothes linen, but the Irish linen for cross-stitching has less knobby bits through it, and the threads are more uniform. It also seems to be so much nicer to use, but I do wonder if it is mind over matter sometimes. I also have some irish linen that was my great-great grandma''s, so it seems to wear well.
Cheers, Soph.

I'm happiest when I am sewing!
User: material_pakrat
Member since: 12-13-2006
Total posts: 220
From: DorothyL
Date: 06-07-2007, 08:49 PM (7 of 8)
No, Mary. Gin.
Dorothy
User: DorothyL
Member since: 12-09-2002
Total posts: 3883
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 06-09-2007, 10:47 AM (8 of 8)
I have a pale green Irish Linen hankie that I received from a British pen pal in the 1940's. It has a sheen almost like silk to the fibers.. It looks brand new and it is 60 years old this year.. I was 13 when Anne sent it to me.. Laundering just seems to make it look better than new..So I'm not afraid to carry or wear it.. :bg: :bg:
Sew With Love
Libby
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002
Total posts: 2022
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