Everything You Need to Know About Our Midweight European Linen

Colourful European Linen at Core Fabrics

Featured in this post

Dreaming of the perfect linen? You’ve found it! Our Midweight European Linen has that just-right balance of softness, drape, and a touch of rustic texture. It’s breezy enough for everyday wear yet polished enough for timeless, tailored pieces. Whether you’re just starting your sewing journey or you’ve been at it for years, this linen is destined to become a go-to favorite in your fabric stash.

In this guide, we’ll answer the most common questions we get about this linen: how it feels, how it sews, what you can make with it, and why it’s such a sustainable choice.

What makes this linen special?

Our midweight linen is produced in Europe using European flax fibres at an Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified mill. It’s pre-washed for softness right off the roll, and it only gets better with age and wear. What makes it truly special is its balance: it can hold a crisp edge when pressed, yet it also has a relaxed, springy drape that moves beautifully.

The weave has a slightly rustic texture, giving garments that casual-luxe feel linen is loved for.

Is this fabric see-through?

No. This linen is fully opaque in most colours, so you won’t need a lining. That makes it a great choice for dresses, trousers, and tops where you want full coverage with fewer layers.

How heavy is it?

At 205 gsm (6 oz/yd²), this fabric is a true midweight linen. It’s substantial enough for year-round wear but still light and breathable for warmer months. Think of it as the sweet spot between airy summer linens and heavyweight weaves.

stack of European linen at core fabrics

Does it drape softly or hold structure?

The magic of this fabric is that it does both. Press it and it will hold a sharp, crisp edge, perfect for pleats, collars, or structured silhouettes. Leave it relaxed and it shows off a soft, springy drape that’s ideal for easygoing garments like dresses or wide-leg pants.

Does it have stretch?

No — this is a woven linen with no added spandex. But like all good-quality linen, it has a bit of natural “give” when worn and will continue to soften over time. The result is a fabric that feels more and more comfortable the longer you own it.

Lilas Dress - Tomato Midweight European Linen | Core Fabrics

What can I make with it?

The versatility of midweight linen makes it suitable for an incredible variety of garments, including:

  • Button-down shirts and blouses

  • Breezy summer dresses

  • Tailored or relaxed trousers

  • Casual jackets and blazers

  • Jumpsuits and skirts

From everyday basics to polished pieces, this linen adapts beautifully.

How does it feel against the skin?

This fabric is soft, breathable, and thermoregulating. That means it helps keep you cool in summer and warm in winter, making it a true year-round fabric. It’s also hypoallergenic, antibacterial, and durable, so it’s as practical as it is comfortable.

Is it beginner-friendly?

Yes! Linen is one of the easiest fabrics to sew with. It cuts cleanly, doesn’t slip around, and presses like a dream. If you’re just starting out, it’s forgiving and easy to handle. For more advanced sewists, it offers endless possibilities for tailoring and design.

How do I care for it?

  • Machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold or warm water

  • Tumble dry low or hang to dry

  • Press with steam for a crisp finish, or embrace its natural texture for a lived-in look

We ran our own wash test and found no colour bleeding or fading. In fact, the fabric became noticeably softer after just one wash — and it will keep softening the longer you own it.

rainbow of European linen at Core Fabrics

Where is it made?

This linen is woven in Lithuania from 100% European flax fibres, ensuring both quality and sustainability.

What certifications does it have?

Our linen is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, meaning it’s been tested for harmful substances and is safe for you and the environment.

Why is linen a sustainable choice?

Linen is one of the most eco-friendly textiles available. Flax, the plant linen comes from, requires far less water and pesticides than cotton. The fibres are long-lasting, biodegradable, and resilient, which means garments made from linen can be worn and loved for years to come. Choosing linen is an investment in both style and sustainability.

Quick Facts at a Glance

  • Width: 57 in / 145 cm

  • Weight: 205 gsm / 6 oz/yd²

  • Fibre: 100% European linen

  • Transparency: Opaque

  • Origin: Lithuania

  • Certification: Oeko-Tex Standard 100

Final Thoughts

Our Midweight European Linen is everything you want in a fabric: sustainable, versatile, and beautiful to sew and wear. Whether you’re making breezy summer garments or crisp tailored trousers, this linen will rise to the occasion — and it will only get softer and more characterful with time.

Explore the full colour range here.