#seedtosling

As consumers, each of us wants to make informed decisions on the impact of our purchases, but it can be hard sometimes to know what we’re paying for.

At WildBird, we understand that it’s our responsibility as a manufacturing company to be sustainable and ethical in our processes and with our materials, and then to be open with our community about how our products were made.

All linen is not created equal! Let us show you what makes our fabrics so special, aside from their aesthetics and feel.


oneFlax to Fiber

Each spring, Belgian farmers prepare to go into the fields to lay down the most suitable strain of flax seeds.

Fact: Belgian flax is 100% irrigated with rainwater.

Welcome to Belgium!

Belgium combines the perfect growing environment with centuries old, artisan farming techniques passed down from generation to generation. This famously enduring combination results in the most high-quality flax found anywhere in the world.

Sowing & Growth

Sowing & Growth

Sowing & Growth

Blooming

Sowing & Growth

Pulling

Sowing & Growth

Retting

Sowing & Growth

Harvest


twoSelection

The quality control process starts with individual fibers. Our suppliers use only long-staple linen fibers, which result in stronger yarns than shorter fibers.

Long-staple Fibers

Fewer ends exposed

Short-staple Fibers

Many ends exposed

A Longer Fiber is a Better Fiber

When it comes to linen, a longer fiber is a better fiber. Long linen fibers can be spun into stronger yarns, producing extremely smooth and supple weaves. When short fibers are spun into yarn, the individual fibers can poke out of the weave, making a coarser and weaker fabric.


threeYarn

Inside Europe’s oldest linen factory (founded in 1778), our long fibers are then broken down and assembled together to create an ultra-strong yarn. Using long and thick fibers – rather than short and fluffy ones, like cotton – results in a yarn that is extremely breathable, durable and absorbent.

Sowing & Growth

Preparation

Sowing & Growth

Spinning Frame

Sowing & Growth

Winding

Inside Europe’s Oldest Linen Factory

These strong, absorbent yarns are then exclusively wet-spun, resulting in a finer and smoother texture.

No waste!

  • Shorter fibers are typically shipped overseas for use as dry-spun, lower-quality linen.
  • Recovered flax shives (the non-fiber part of the stem) are further processed into chipboards.
  • Even the dust and tiny fibers are collected, to be used for other products like paper.

fourWeaving

Weaving is a technical process where experience is critical.

Sowing & Growth

Preparation

Sowing & Growth

Weaving

Sowing & Growth

Quality Control

Sowing & Growth

Finishing

The Weaving Process

Our fourth-generation-run Belgian and Italian weaving mills are experts in their craft, and share our dedication to quality textiles, fair wages, a positive work environment, and sustainable manufacturing practices.

Fact: All our fabric ships in biodegradable packaging!


fiveDyeing & Softening

At the dyeing and softening stages, our fabric takes on its unique color and feel.

The EU has the strictest water cleaning regulations in the world. Our dye houses not only comply with these regulations but outperform them. During our visits, we survey every area of the facility, and verify first-hand their compliance. Our dye facilities are able to recycle and reuse 60% of all water used – and the other 40% is clean and drinkable water!


six#madebymoms

A portion of Wildbird slings are made by a network of independent seamstresses. Most of whom are also parents, working flexibly from home for professional wages.
Get to know some of them below!


Learn more about us

Our Story

WildBird began with a love for wearing babies, and we adored the deep connection made when keeping our little birds close.

#intheknow

It’s simple, the more you know the better. We’re committed to opening the doors to our companies sourcing, manufacturing process, costs, markups, etc.