Linen paper

Description

Originally the term linen paper refer to a superior quality paper that was made from flax fibers or linen rags. Linen paper, or drafting cloth, was manufactured in England from about 1850 (AIC Book and Paper Catalog). It was widely used for architectural and engineering drawings and for many years was required by U.S. government offices for archived construction drawings. Linen paper was filled or coated with starch, gelatin or synthetic resins to produce a stiff, smooth, slightly translucent paper. It was replaced by less expensive polyester papers in the 1960s. Now the term linen paper is used for paper that has a linen-like surface finish.

Synonyms and Related Terms

drafting cloth