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Get to Know Flax and Fiber Plants

Knowledge and use of fiber plants build a bridge between nature and culture. Come and explore some of the plants, and try your hand at harvesting, scutching, and heckling flax. We are joined by the Norwegian Flax Association, the Norwegian Folk Art and Craft Association, and the Philippine Embassy in Norway.

flax plant

Foto: Rolv Hjelmstad

Plant fibers truly are the threads of life. Products are made from various plants depending on where in the world and in what climate zone you live. We will showcase fiber plants and fiber plant products from around the world. Discover which plants your clothes are made from.

On this day, you’ll see products made from flax, agave, cotton, hemp, ramie, jute, banana and pineapple.

You can participate in preparing flax fiber, which includes retting, scutching, heckling, and spinning flax. Perhaps you’ll discover which types of fabric are the most environmentally friendly?

Drop in activities

  • Learn about flax preparation from seed to bunad shirt by the Norwegian Flax Association.
  • How to wash and care for a linen shirt by the Norwegian Folk Art and Craft Association.
  • Try scutching, heckling, and spinning flax by The Natural History Museum

Exhibitions and guided tours

  • An exhibit of beautiful textiles made from pineapple and banana leaves, among others, by the Philippine Embassy in Norway.
  • Guided tours of the Herb Garden every hour at 12, 1, and 2 PM.

Practical Information

  • The event is free of charge.
  • Meeting place: Herb Garden.
  • Accessible for wheelchair users.
Published Aug. 19, 2024 2:03 PM - Last modified Aug. 20, 2024 1:05 PM

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