Linen Lovers

Hey everyone,

I’m based in India and currently trying to deeply understand pure linen fabrics as I work towards building a small linen clothing brand. I’m still learning and would genuinely appreciate guidance from people experienced in linen/textiles.

I had a few questions:

1. Would love to know any good pure linen sourcing options — especially startup-friendly suppliers or mills.

2. I often see only GSM mentioned for linen fabrics. How can I understand or identify the lea count if it’s not specified?

3. For women’s tops and dresses, what LEA and GSM ranges generally work best in terms of drape, softness, opacity, and overall garment feel?

I have just purchased my first patterns and fabric. I have never sewn my own clothing. You know how you go clothing shopping and have to try on 10 items to find one that fits right? My fear is I will put time and money into sewing something, and then it won't fit right or look good on me. However, now that I mostly wear dresses, I think it will be easier. The first thing I'm going to make for myself is a pair of pantaloons to go under my dresses. I bought fabrics for my daughters so they can each make a dress. We have good quality sewing machines, but I want to get a self threading serger so my daughters can eventually sell what they make. What sergers are the best, most beginner friendly? Our sewing machines are Pfaff and Babylock. What do you use Leah?

Hi I'm new here! I just found Charlie Darwin and am still contemplating which pattern to make first. I've been sewing casually for about 20 years, although lately mostly just for pattern testing and Tauko make-and-shares. I have a trip this summer I'm starting to brainstorm for.

Do you all have a favorite place to buy linen fabric? For a long time I was buying from fabrics-store.com but their linens don't hold up great over time. I'm looking for a bargain and better quality if possible! TIA!

I don’t know how many in this group follow Bernadette Banner, but she just posted a YouTube video about searching for a new source of “historical quality” linen. She is in the UK and makes historical garments, so the focus is not quite the same as here, but it’s interesting to see and compare the various qualities of linen.

Has anyone tried the linen fabric from Matchy Matchy Sewing Club? It looks so fun!

https://matchymatchysewingclub.com/collections/linen-fabric?_kx=OKTLAOkj3G25b1_Fjt_uVquSl4zxL1K-eY3mwKQlJ3c.XbkY7p