What is the best way to gather linen thread for banners?

Gathering linen thread for banners in Valheim is a mid-to-late game activity that requires preparation and exploration. Linen thread is crafted from flax, a resource found exclusively in the Plains biome. This biome is dangerous, so players should ensure they are well-equipped with strong armor, weapons, and food before venturing there. Flax can be harvested from Fuling villages, which are small settlements inhabited by hostile Fuling enemies. These villages often have flax growing in their fields or stored in chests.\n\nTo gather flax, players must first locate a Plains biome. This biome is characterized by its golden grass, large rock formations, and the presence of dangerous creatures like Deathsquitos and Fulings. Once in the Plains, look for Fuling villages. These settlements are usually surrounded by wooden fences and contain multiple huts. Approach cautiously, as Fulings are aggressive and can overwhelm unprepared players. Use ranged weapons like bows to thin their numbers before engaging in close combat.\n\nAfter clearing a Fuling village, search for flax plants. These resemble tall, thin stalks with yellow flowers at the top. Use the interact key to harvest them. Each flax plant yields one flax, which can be used to craft linen thread. Additionally, check the chests within the village, as they often contain flax or other valuable resources. Once you have gathered enough flax, return to your base to process it.\n\nTo craft linen thread, you will need a spinning wheel. This crafting station requires 20 fine wood, 10 iron nails, and 5 leather scraps to build. Fine wood is obtained by chopping down birch or oak trees, while iron nails are crafted from iron bars at a forge. Leather scraps are a common drop from boars and deer. Once the spinning wheel is constructed, place it in your base and interact with it to convert flax into linen thread. Each flax produces one linen thread, which can then be used to craft banners or other decorative items.\n\nOne common challenge is surviving in the Plains biome. To mitigate this, ensure you have high-tier armor like wolf or padded armor, as well as strong weapons such as a blackmetal sword or bow. Bring healing mead and stamina-boosting foods like serpent stew or lox meat pie. Additionally, consider building a small outpost near the Plains biome to store resources and respawn if needed. This can save time and reduce the risk of losing valuable items.\n\nFor new players, it’s important to note that flax cannot be planted or grown in the Meadows or Black Forest biomes. It only grows naturally in the Plains, so you must venture there to obtain it. Experienced players can optimize their flax gathering by using portals to quickly travel between their base and the Plains biome. This reduces travel time and allows for efficient resource collection.\n\nIn summary, gathering linen thread for banners involves locating and harvesting flax in the Plains biome, crafting a spinning wheel, and processing the flax into thread. Prepare thoroughly for the dangers of the Plains, and consider building an outpost or using portals to streamline the process. With patience and preparation, you’ll have plenty of linen thread to craft banners and decorate your Viking home.