Hints on Choosing Textiles 1545 



Suggestions 



Linen fiber absorbs moisture readily; it is therefore very suitable 

 for towelings and for other materials that are used to remove 

 moisture from surfaces. This power of absorption is the cause 

 of the complete absorption of light oils by linen and the resulting 

 transparency. 



Its durability makes this fiber desirable in dress-goods fabrics as well as in 

 sail cloths, canvas, and sacking. 



Linen is more easily disintegrated than cotton, and therefore does not 

 withstand the action of boiling alkali solutions, bleaching powder, 

 and oxidi-zing agents. This characteristic, together with its slow 

 reaction to dyestuff, makes it difficult to obtain a fast color that will 

 take hold of the fiber. Natural color and white are therefore more 

 likely to give complete satisfaction than any applied color in linen 

 fabrics. 



The luster of the linen fiber makes the fabric desirable for table linen, 

 dresses, and dainty pieces of fancy work. The rich texture and 

 satisfying designs in the weave are pleasing. Its tendency to shed 

 dirt makes it a very useful fabric. 



Rich, heavy materials of linen are soft, drape gracefully, and are useful 

 for hangings. 



Linen should be used for 



Dish towels, because it absorbs moisture readily. 



Tablecloths, because of its beautiful texture and the fact that it 



sheds soil readily. 

 Household fancy work, because of its whiteness and the permanency 



of its bleach. 

 vSummer dresses, because it is beautiful and cool, and because of the 

 absorption and the consequent evaporation of moisture. 



Kinds of linen fabrics and their uses 



Butcher's linen. — A heavy, coarse weave. Used for butcher's aprons, 

 and for dress skirts because it is durable, attractive, and inexpensive. 



Cambric. — A fine fabric. Used for dresses and handkerchiefs because 

 of its sheer texture. 



Crash. — A coarse weave. Used for toweling, dresses, and upholstery. 

 It is rough and lends itself to various artistic uses because of its effective- 

 ness. 



Damask. — A fine satin weave with figured designs. Used for towels, 

 tablecloths, and napkins because of its beauty and its power to shed 

 dirt. 



