how to process wild flax for its fibers

[storm]

i'm wondering how i might go about getting the fibers out of this wild, locally-growing Flax (Linium lewisii). i suspect i can process it in the same manner as stinging nettle. anyone know? thanks!

 

[Toddy]

i'm wondering how i might go about getting the fibers out of this wild, locally-growing Flax (Linium lewisii). i suspect i can process it in the same manner as stinging nettle. anyone know? thanks!

Firstly, you really want to get it before it flowers/seeds if you can; the aim is long unbranched lengths if possible.
Pull, don't cut the stems. Stook them to dry out a bit...really just a good wilting, and then either spread them out on dewy grass for a few days or bundle and soak in water. You'll probably have to weight them down. The idea is to rett the binding between the woody core and the fibrous skin. The flax goes mildewed if great care isn't taken to keep it fully submerged or well turned on grass.
Lift out, stack on it's butts and let it dry. The it gets broken (google for flax brake, though I find a wooden baton works quite well) and then combed to remove the 'chaff'. Eventually linen fibres!
I'd be interested to hear how you get on.
Cheers,
Toddy

 

[match]

Remember that as with all retting, this will smell awful, so doing it in the bath is a big nono (unless you live by yourself and have no sense of smell!)

 

[storm]

Remember that as with all retting, this will smell awful, so doing it in the bath is a big nono (unless you live by yourself and have no sense of smell!)

since i soak lots of dead things in the bath and boil rotten animal heads on the stove, living alone certainly has its advantages...