Toddy said:I sew linen for re-enactors because it's not supposed to flare the way cotton does with a naked flame. But as an underneath layer it's marvellous. It sort of breathes itself dry even under damp wool.
I got soaked to the skin four times last week, (four different sites, four different events, four different periods ) and the only time I was comfortable was in Iron age and then in Medieval style linen and wool. Modern clothing was still damp having driven home in a heated car; 20 minutes in sunshine and my wool cloak and skirts were dry again. Pity about the shoes though.....wet courrans aren't nice things
For field work I like silk underneath.....it's warmer, honest See
http://www.patra.com/facts.asp
Silk and wool, you can wear them wet and they're still warm. No need to strip off to the skin, just wring out the layers bit by bit and let your body heat dry them off if you haven't got a fire going. Damp wool swells a bit and stops the wind chill too. Goats wool is supposed to be the best for shedding the rain.
On the other hand, I've never gone into an arctic river with them to extreme test
Cheers,
Toddy
I've got a problem with smilies, haven't I? Sorry folks, no hands on line!
Toddy,
come to visit me and we can test your cloth! I am a strong believer of the natural clothing, woll and fur. Never had silk or linen but will have a go and see how they do. Thanks for the tip.
cheers
Abbe