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 with use, still is is way softer than the Illinois material. Dovo/Jemico on the other hand use a very soft supple "linen" material.

For me though it's mostly leather stropping. I rarely use the linen on any make of strop.

Tony