Flax
Item
Identifier
2025.075
Title
Flax
Type
Material
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Description
This flax was grown by the Center in the Penn State Arboretum in 2022. Fiber derived from the bast or skin of the stem of the species Linum usitatissimum. Soft, flexible fibers are produced by retting the stem of the flax plant, then washing and cleaning the fibers. Flax fibers of thinner and longer than cotton, but the fiber tube has thicker walls resulting in a stronger thread. Additionally, flax fibers are used for linen fabric, thread for making shoes and bookbinding, fish line, and twine. Waste flax fibers are used in banknotes, cigarette covers, and writing and drawing paper
Subject
natural fiber; fiber; fibers; plant material; bast fiber
Copyright statement
These images are posted publicly for non-profit educational uses, excluding printed publication. Other uses may not be permitted.