In our research the linen economy, we go through all the steps from seed to textile and explore how we can establish a new linen chain together based on connection with each other and nature. Van der Bilt Zaden en Vlas is a global player in the field of flax seed breeding (a process of years), has an extensive network of farmers they collaborate with for flax cultivation, and processes the flax into heckle tape in their factory in Sluiskil.

On February 13, together with partners Joline Jolink, Auping, New Tailor, Eschede Textielstad and Avans Centre of Expertise Wellbeing Economy and New Entrepreneurship, we visited Van der Bilt Zaden en Vlas. After a lecture on flax, Lenno Vermaas guided us through the factory, showing us all the processes, from the inspection and packaging of flax seeds to the processing of fiber flax, such as scutching and heckling.