Linen has long been considered ideal for use in both heavy duty utility and noble interior design contexts, outlasting many other textiles with the right care. Further it has been argued that Flax represents the most sustainable of blast fibre crops for textiles: minimal water and power requirements, all parts of the plant having potential for use. As material science continues to explore the properties of flax fibres, new materials are emerging with more holistically sustainable applications. Does it represent an ideal in a world now changing as a result of inefficient lifestyles and dwindling resources? What future for this venerable material?