GP & J Baker | Magma

Magma is a linen-forward plain from the Essential Colours group, narrower than its stablemates at 132 centimetres but woven to the same standard, with no repeat to match and a dry, natural hand from its high linen content. It sits at the more textile end of the collection's plains, closer to a true linen than the viscose-rich weaves elsewhere in the range, and it drapes with a little more structure as a result.

The composition is 42 per cent linen, 28 per cent viscose, 24 per cent cotton and 6 per cent polyester. It is 132 centimetres wide with no stated repeat, and GP & J Baker tested it to 40,000 Martindale rubs, which is rated for upholstery. Three colourways: Marble, a pale neutral; Sand, a warmer beige; and Delft, a clear blue that recurs across several of the Essential Colours weaves in this selection.

We use it for a sofa or curtains in a scheme that wants a linen-handed plain rather than a smoother viscose weave, and Delft pairs naturally with the other Delft-toned cloths in the wider Essential Colours range. Pair Marble or Sand with an archive floral in warm tones for an easy, layered scheme that still reads as calm. Sold by the half metre; order a sample to see it in your own light.

With no repeat, cutting is simple and wastage low, though note the narrower 132 centimetre width when calculating quantities against the collection's more common 137 centimetre cloths. Line curtains for a good fall; for upholstery, standard construction applies, and at 40,000 rubs it is rated for genuinely heavy daily use, including a family sofa or a pair of dining chairs in constant use.

• Composition: 42% linen, 28% viscose, 24% cotton, 6% polyester
• Width: 132 cm (52 in)
• Abrasion resistance: 40,000 rubs (Martindale)
• Suitable for: Upholstery, Curtains
• Care: Dry clean professionally; do not wash, bleach or iron.
• Collection: Essential Colour I, GP & J Baker
• Colourways: 3 (Marble, Sand, Delft)