Textiles

Flax had a central role in the province. It likely contributed to a significant portion of the culture of stately construction, since flax cultivation provided a surplus that could be sold after being processed.

The good quality and extensive knowledge regarding the processing of flax became a distinguishing mark of the Hälsingland farmers early on. For that reason, they also began decorating their homes with textiles early on.

When the tables in Hälsingland were set for celebrations in the 1800s, it was an occasion to show what the farmhouse had to offer. Alongside a table loaded down with food and drink, the beautiful textiles of the house were also brought out. Rag carpets in strong colors lay on the freshly-scoured wooden floors. Layers of embroidered linen sheets, quilts, and pillowcases were placed on the “great bed”. Long tablecloths were rolled out onto the tables, and thin white curtains were hung in the windows. Together with the paintings and wallpaper on the walls, an exclusive but cozy feeling of celebration and abundance was created.