‘Quayside’ deep indigo blue linen fabric

How could we not fall upon this deep indigo blue linen fabric, as if it were the answer to all our (more sober) dreams? This is such a versatile fabric – the weight is equally suitable for relaxed summer trousers as it is for classic shift dresses and tunics. The shade of navy blue is rich and deep; it looks fabulous with classic white but it doesn’t have to stay formal – it’s the perfect ground for other practically any other colour to pop against – try chartreuse green, yellow or pink!

What kind of fabric is this?

Our deep indigo blue linen fabric is a medium-weight linen (200gsm) with a stable and lightly-slubbed weave. The slubs are part of the character of a linen fabric and although they’re not overly obvious, they provide a distinctive texture to this fabric.

Don’t forget that there’s no ease in linen fabrics so you’ll need to factor that into your garment choice and sizing.

PLEASE NOTE: The main images for this fabric show our indigo blue linen AFTER pre-washing. Pre-washing linen (separately!) is always advised to ensure that any excess dye and initial shrinkage is removed prior to cutting. Upon purchase, you’ll see that this linen has a darker, more even colour than the post-wash images; the manufacturing process has also left visible deposits on the fabric as shown in our final gallery image. These will be removed by the pre-wash and will help remove the excess dye. The washed linen will have a more relaxed feel and will also show variations in dye distribution; this is intentional and intrinsic to this fabric.

What does this fabric feel like?

This is a crisp fabric but smooth to the touch despite the evident texture in the weave. It’s breathable and our experience with these linens is that they soften up very quickly but retain their structure too. This is a fabric which will be cool and comfortable to wear next to the skin.

How does this fabric move?

This is a lively fabric which falls and swings beautifully, but which will hold a shape with character. You can see how it moves in this video.

NOTE: Our videos are intended to show the movement of a fabric. For accurate colour and pattern detail, please refer to our still images.

Will I need to line this fabric?

You won’t need to line a shirt, top or tunic made from this fabric, however a dress may require a bodice lining for structure depending on your pattern design. Unless you’re wearing it over bare legs, then you’ll need a half-slip to enable this fabric to move against your body. However this kind of fabric is usually used for summer-cool and more casual designs where a lining would probably defeat the object of the fabric. A loose dress will reveal some silhouette when backed by sunlight, but no more than is in keeping with the style of garment you’re likely to be considering. We’ve done the knicker test for trousers and this fabric passed! However you’ll want to wear undergarments which aren’t bright white and which don’t contrast with your skin tone.

What can I make with this fabric?

Our deep indigo blue linen fabric is a versatile fabric which we think will lend itself to shirts, tunics and simple dresses as much as summer separates. However we have it slated for a pair of the ‘Sidewinder’ Pants from The Sewing Revival, which we think will work well with the relaxed formality of this fabric.

 

Sustainability

Linen is woven from flax which can be easily grown with fewer chemicals required to aid growth and process the fibres.  It is generally considered to be one of the most sustainable types of fabric.

Deadstock? ✅

Organic? ❎

OEKO-TEX standard? ❎

Fabric width

145cm

Fabric composition

100% linen.

Fabric preparation

Machine wash separately at 40º. This process will remove visible fabric finishing – see above for details.

Fabric care

Machine wash at 30º or 40º. See our Fabric care pages for more information.