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Fccexpert pretty much covered it. Many of the names have become just that, names. Some have always called the cloth side canvas, other linen. In reality most strop makers "linen" side is a cotton...

The Illinois "linen" does have some sort oif coating or impregnation that feels "plasticy". the entire thing is stiff as if it is starched. My linen is a coarse hard weave but develops a soft knapp...