TRADITION OF LINEN FABRIC PRODUCTION IN THE CZECH REPUBLIC

Linen is one of the oldest and most valuable textile raw materials in Central Europe. It has been cultivated and processed in the territory of today's Czech Republic for centuries – from home spinning and weaving, through guild crafts and manufactories, to modern industrial production. The Czech flax tradition has long been one of the most developed in Europe and has become the basis for the high level of processing that continues to this day.

As early as the Middle Ages, flax was a common part of the economy of the Czech lands. In the foothills and mountain regions, spinning and weaving were an important source of livelihood for thousands of families. Gradually, guilds of weavers and linen makers were formed to oversee quality, technological processes, and trade. In the 16th–18th centuries, the production of linen fabrics expanded to such an extent that linen weaving became one of the most important pre-industrial sectors in the Czech lands. Department stores and business families emerged, organizing the work of domestic weavers and exporting Czech linen throughout Europe.

The Industrial Revolution brought a fundamental change. The mechanization of spinning and weaving transformed flax production into a modern industry. Northern Moravia, and especially the Šumperk region, became one of the main centers of flax production – it was here that the first mechanical flax spinning mill in Moravia was built in the 1840s. Large textile factories were established, combining spinning mills, weaving mills, and fabric finishing plants. Czech flax gained an excellent reputation for its strength, fiber purity, and the long life of its products.

The 20th century saw further technological development, concentration of production, and the emergence of strong linen companies. The tradition of the Šumperk region was also reflected in the Moravolen brand, which became a symbol of high-quality linen and damask textiles. After 1989, the industry underwent a major restructuring. Many traditional companies ceased to exist, but the preserved know-how, technical expertise, and craft culture created a solid foundation for the emergence of a new generation of specialized manufacturers.

LINMASTER: a modern continuation of the Czech linen tradition

LINMASTER, s.r.o. builds on this exceptionally rich tradition, combining the historical know-how of Czech linen production with modern technologies. Since its establishment in 2004, it has been engaged in textile activities with a focus on the production of linen, half-linen and cotton fabrics, which it then processes in the traditional way – washing, bleaching or dyeing according to customer requirements. It draws primarily on the many years of knowledge and experience of its employees, who have been involved in the production of textile fabrics for decades and have thus become part of the history of textile production in the Czech Republic.

At a time when the world is returning to natural materials, sustainability, and honest craftsmanship, linen fabrics represent not only a return to proven values, but also the material of the future. LINMASTER is not just a manufacturer – it is the successor to one of the oldest and highest-quality textile crafts in Europe.

And why linen?

Linen is one of the most environmentally friendly natural materials, requiring no irrigation or chemical treatment against pests. The yarn is lint-free, meaning it does not stick to objects that come into contact with the fabric. Linen fabric can absorb up to 20% of its weight in water without feeling damp to the touch. Moisture is then easily released, so the fabric dries well. These are the main reasons why linen fiber is so suitable for the production of textile products for tableware.

Linen yarn is hypoallergenic, prevents the growth of microorganisms, does not produce static electricity, does not attract dust, and protects against UV radiation. Thanks to its thermoregulatory properties, linen fabric cools in summer and warms in winter. Linen clothing does not get dirty as easily as cotton, and linen fabric does not pill. Linen fiber is very strong and becomes more pleasant to the touch after each wash. Thanks to their strength and durability, linen products can last for many years.

A few words in conclusion

Linen is a living material and must be treated as such. Each harvest is different, and the quality and strength of each fiber is different. Two identically manufactured fabrics made from identical materials are never completely identical. Only experienced experts are able to deal with this and produce a quality product that is worth the price. At LINMASTER, we employ such experts, which is why we can stand behind the quality of our products.