Flax
Flax (linen) is a natural bast fiber with strong striations running along the fiber axis and large and small air chambers (hollow structure) in a polygonal cross section. This structure gives it a firm, crisp feel, does not stick to the skin, and does not feel sticky even in sweaty seasons.
After harvesting, the stalks are soaked in water or laid out on the ground to use the power of microorganisms and the sun to break down unnecessary soft tissue. Once they are sufficiently soft, they are crushed to separate the fibers and stalks, and refined by combing to make yarn. The more times they are washed, the less fuzz they become and the more lustrous they become, and the stronger the fibers are when wet, so they can maintain their clean condition and texture for a long time.
In addition, the hollow structure contains air, providing heat retention, and excellent breathability and moisture absorption/quick drying properties keep you cool in spring and summer, while providing moderate warmth in chilly seasons. It requires almost no irrigation during cultivation and is rarely damaged by pests, so it requires significantly less pesticides and chemical fertilizers and is highly regarded as a sustainable material that reduces the burden on water resources and soil.
The main fiber-producing areas are France (Normandy, etc.), Belgium, and the coastal areas of the Netherlands, which account for approximately 75% of the world market share.
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