I've used linen many times in many projects. Both 100% and blends with great results. It's washable, gets softer with each washing and may slowly fade a bit depending on the dying process and dyes used. It behaves very much like cotton and works and plays well with other natural fabrics. It is extremely strong when wet and it may ravel a bit if loosely woven. Linens also develop a wonderful patina as they age.