Linen card stock, as with all linen products, is made from the stalk of the flax plant. The stalk of the flax plant is comprised of several thin fibers. After the fibers have been removed from the stalk through a combing process, the fibers are spun into threads to make a linen yarn. Thin strands of linen threads are woven with cotton or other materials to create sheets of linen paper. The end result is a strong, water-resistant paper with a distinct woven appearance.
Linen card stock has a fabriclike quality to it. The woven linen threads are easily identifiable; the woven paper may also have a slight texture to it. Linen card stock is typically slightly thicker and stiffer than regular linen paper; linen card stock is at least .02 inches thick while regular paper is approximately .003 inches thick. Linen card stock is available in a limited variety of sizes and colors; the most popular options are cream or white colors, which highlight the natural texture and appearance of linen.
Linen card stock is most well-known for its woven appearance. The weaving used to produce linen card stock creates a particularly strong paper. Linen is also very absorbent, which can be a problem for people who use linen card stock for printing; wet inks may spread or absorb into the fibers. Linen card stock is not very elastic; if the paper is bent, it will keep a firm even crease without springing back open.
Linen card stock is a popular paper used in craft projects. Scrapbooks or greeting cards that use linen paper have a natural, elegant appearance. Linen card stock is a popular paper choice for high-end wedding or party invitations because it is considered a specialty paper.
Linen card stock is one of the most expensive paper options available; as of June 2010, linen card stock, averages approximately 25 cents per sheet whereas regular card stock averages approximately 5 cents per sheet. The cost of using linen in a project that requires large quantities may be cost prohibitive for some consumers. Linen card stock is a specialty paper, which means that it may be difficult to find in a wide range of colors or sizes.