IL037 NATURAL - 100% Linen - Middle (6.3 oz/yd²)

Based on the description, I thought this linen would be similar to the IL019 but woven slightly tighter thus making it a bit more substantial. It is nothing like that. It is more loosely woven with fibres that are thicker and less refined giving it a rustic vibe. There's nothing wrong with that if it's the type of fabric you're looking for and expecting, which I was not. It's totally on me that I didn't order a sample before buying 4 yards but I will make good use of this linen regardless, it will just be for a project other than what I originally had in mind. Perhaps the blurb can be updated to include the specific characteristics of this linen rather than simply saying it's between the IL019 and 4C22 which leaves too much to interpretation?

IL037 6.3 oz linen provides a good support for oil painting. The weave and tooth are similar to Fredrix 10 ox Dixie cotton canvas, but with the slight irregularities that set linen apart. Lint slubs are at a minimum. The few that show through the sizing and the first coat of primer can be leveled with a little sanding before putting on another coat. Of the 3 linens I've tried: 4C22 was way too slubby. Couldn't use. IL037 6.3 oz is just right for landscape work IL019 5.3 oz is tighter weave, best for portraiture I glue the linen to hardboard and have not tried stretching it. My process is: 1. Cut linen to 1" wider than hardboard 2. Scuff hardboard with 150 grit sandpaper 3. Adhere linen to board with Liquitex gloss medium 4. Coat front of linen with thin layer of medium 5. After dry, lightly sand to remove slubs and whiskers 6. Coat with Liquitex professional gesso 7. After dry, coat with Winsor and Newton oil primer