3. Stream retting: This method for producing high quality flax fiber was used before but now is outmoded. 4. Tank or VAT retting: The flax is immersed in wooden vats of warm water at temperature. Ranging from 25-30�c which hastens the decomposition of the woody bark. The flax is removed from the vats and passed between rollers to crush the decomposed bark as clean water flushes away the pectin or gum and other impurities. Linen produced by this method is more susceptible to mildew.

3. The Kantha of Bengal: The traditional folk art of Bengal is famous as Kantha, which means Patched Cloth and quilting. The Dacca muslin saris of gray, black or white coloured are used for thin embroidering. The old discarded cotton saris or dhotis are piled up on the top of each other quilted and embroidered.