What does it mean to grow, process, and craft textiles and garments collectively by hand?

The Shared Stewardship community explores this question by engaging in every stage of textile cultivation, from growing flax to creating linen garments and objects. Guided by the principles of commoning, members share decision-making, responsibilities, and the costs of land and resources.

Over a year, Linen Stewards cultivate, harvest, spin, weave, and knit by hand, forming pieces for personal use. Their approach values shared stewardship and integrates the needs of the earth and all beings affected.

Founded by The Linen Project in 2020, the initiative has evolved into an ongoing community-based at De Horsterhof farm in Duiven. In the short film below, members reflect on their journey and insights.

As a member of the Shared Stewardship community of The Linen Project in 2021 and 2022, I experienced the collective cultivation of flax and handcrafting of textiles from seed to finished product. Guided by principles of commoning and shared decision-making, which fostered a new economic, social, and cultural paradigm rooted in respect for all affected by our actions. This project led me to make the ‘From Seed to Scarf’ Project.

Photos by Rob Velker, me, and other Linen Stewards