care of Irish linen

by J Barrie
(Iowa)

I am sewing with a small amount of embroidery on a large piece of Irish linen (approximately 30 x 50).

As it is on the bolt it is quite stiff. It is an item that will be washed by machine frequently and will have wine stains. I plan to prewash before I sew.

Does anyone know if Irish linen will have a large amount of shrinkage and I assume as it is a linen will fray quite easily. Any suggestions you can give me will be appreciated.