What types of linen fabrics do linen clothing manufacturers use?

What Types of Linen Fabrics Do Linen Clothing Manufacturers Use?

Short Answer
Linen clothing manufacturers use a range of linen fabrics, including pure linen and linen blends, selected based on garment type, comfort, durability, drape, and sustainability requirements.

The most common options include 100% linen, linen–cotton blends, linen–viscose blends, linen–Tencel blends, and lightweight woven linen fabrics, each serving different apparel applications.

Common Types of Linen Fabrics Used in Manufacturing

1) 100% Linen Fabric

100% linen is made entirely from flax fibers and is valued for breathability, durability, and its natural texture.

• Excellent airflow and moisture absorption
• Natural slub texture
• High durability and long garment lifespan
• Fully biodegradable

Typical uses: shirts, summer dresses, pants, skirts, premium sustainable collections.

2) Linen–Cotton Blends

Linen–cotton blends balance linen’s breathability with cotton’s softness and comfort.

• Softer hand feel than pure linen
• Reduced wrinkling
• Improved comfort and wearability

Typical uses: casual shirts, everyday tops, entry-level linen collections.

3) Linen–Viscose (Linen–Rayon) Blends

Linen–viscose blends are commonly used to improve drape and softness while maintaining linen’s breathable properties.

• Smoother surface
• More fluid drape
• Less stiffness than pure linen

Typical uses: women’s dresses, blouses, camisoles, fashion-forward designs.

4) Linen–Tencel™ (Linen–Lyocell) Blends

Linen–Tencel blends are increasingly used by sustainable linen clothing manufacturers.

• Enhanced softness and smoothness
• Excellent moisture management
• Strong sustainability credentials

Typical uses: premium eco-friendly apparel, resort wear, high-end collections.

5) Lightweight Woven Linen (Weaves & GSM)

Linen fabrics also vary by weave structure and fabric weight (GSM), which directly affects opacity, drape, and durability.

• Plain-weave linen (most common)
• Lightweight linen for summer tops
• Medium-weight linen for dresses and pants

How Linen Clothing Manufacturers Choose the Right Fabric

Manufacturers select linen fabrics based on garment design, target market, climate conditions, washing requirements, and sustainability goals.

• Garment category and structure
• Required drape and stiffness
• Wrinkle tolerance expectations
• Cost and MOQ constraints
• Brand sustainability positioning

Linenwind’s Fabric Selection Approach

At Linenwind, we work with a wide range of linen fabrics to match different garment applications and brand needs.

• 100% linen and carefully selected linen blends
• Fabric testing for shrinkage and wash stability
• Professional fabric recommendations during OEM and ODM development
• Low MOQ of 60 pieces to support startups and small brands

Learn more about our OEM and ODM services: linen clothing manufacturing services

FAQ — Linen Fabric Types