ANST - a fabric question

[James Crouchet]

Late reply:

Here in Austin we often shop at Silk Road, especially for linen and 
silk. If you are thinking you cannot afford linen and silk -- especially 
linen -- think again. Anyway, you can view a selection and order 
online at http://www.srfabrics.com

The thing the SCA buys the most of from Silk Road is a 100% 
linen (flax) called Judy's linen. It is about $9/yd in 60" material. 
That is probably about 25%-30% than an equivalent 100% cotton 
but linen looks right, is SO much more comfortable in the summer 
and, remember, you will keep this garment for years.

Interestingly, fine thin linen is MORE expensive than thick, hearty 
linen. Thus handkerchief weight linen like you might use for a fine 
chemise runs about $11/yd. I guess you could use cotton for that, 
but to really get the best breathability and coolness you'll want 
linen for all layers. Even linen/cotton blends do not convey the 
benefits of pure linen.

Finally, use great caution when shopping for linen and silk in the 
Dallas garment district. I know for a fact that some of the "linen" 
sold there has turned out to be only part linen (real linen is 100% 
flax) or was all rayon woven to look like linen. Once you learn the 
look and feel of real linen it will be much harder to fool you.

Doré (back online after 2 weeks with no email!)
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