Linen has been a popular choice of fabric for many decades. It is loved not only for its breathability but also for its texture and feel on the body. However, as we buy our favourite linen dresses and shirts, one thing that often comes to mind is why is linen a bit costlier than other fabrics. Let us get to know the reasons today.
Process – First, let us get to know the process of making linen. Making linen products is not merely a process but it is an art. There is a method for making good quality linen. Linen comes from flax plants which have to be harvested and processed into straws mechanically. These straws are then spread on a field for 2-3 weeks so that they get soaked with dew and are easy to sort. These soaked straws are then collected, dried and broken and only then can the stalk and the inner part of the straw can be separated. Then these straws are made into bands and thin twisted thread called roves are made. Only then can pure linen fabric be weaved from these roves. Additional steps of bleaching and dyeing have to be done if the fabric is to be made in different colours. As you can see this is an elaborate and precise method of making linen fabric. There are so many steps where precision and patience are required to finally make this beautiful fabric as we know it.
Now, let us understand other factors that influence the price of linen.
Time and work – As we saw earlier, making linen is a time-consuming and labour-intensive process. It can take several weeks or months to finally get your hand on the fabric after the planting process. Also, skilled labour is required at most steps to ensure that the quality is retained. This means that time and the high cost of skilled labour eventually add to the price of the final product.
Superior Quality – The better the quality of the product, the higher its price is. This rule is known to all and applies to linen because it is durable, easy to care for and extremely comfortable. Good quality linen is made from long fibres that are spun to make strong yarns. Longer fibres mean more durable fabric and consequently, the cost of making high-quality fabric like linen is always more compared to lesser quality materials.
Demand and supply – The simple rule of demand and supply often affects the price of a product. Many factors like crop production and lifestyle trends dictate this relation between demand and supply. As the fashion and lifestyle industry grows every year, the demand for linen, being one of the most versatile fabrics grows hand in hand. Products like towels, tablecloths and bedsheets apart from apparel have ensured a steadily increasing demand for linen. The higher the demand, the higher the price.
Branding and positioning – Linen has always been marketed as a high-end product. Because of its quality, the marketing strategies of companies have always revolved around brand and product value and subsequently, the customers are willing to pay more for good quality products. The storytelling done by the brands and limited-edition products along with designer collections resonate with the customer, thus adding to its value and price.
Comfort and Style – Linen has always been a favourite because of many factors. Its comfort, rarity, durability, versatility and look have always been strong enough motivators for customers to buy it. People are willing to shell out the extra buck as long as these demands are met and linen always delivers what it promises!
The 5 factors mentioned above along with the elaborate production process, make linen a high-quality product, thus adding to its price. Check out Label Numaani products for vibrant and stylish linen apparel that will make your festive season brighter!