Hemp – Revival – Community
Reviving traditions of regenerative textile craft
Modernising ancient textile traditions
For millennia, the Ukrainian people engaged in regenerative cultivation of hemp and flax textiles, fostering a tradition that endured until the 1970s. This practice involved organic farming methods without machinery, chemicals and electricity and transformation from yarn to fabric occurred through manual weaving on traditional looms.
HERECO studied and modernised these ancient techniques to establish Europe’s first fair trade, regenerative textile production from seed to final garment.
The story of our material
The fascinating journey of HERECO began with discovery of the ancient stocks of handweaved hemp.
The fabric held immense value for our ancestors and was considered a sign of prosperity.
It was also a significant part of women’s dowries. In Ukrainian culture, dowries were meant to be saved, not spent. This meant that the skill of creating handwoven fabric empowered women financially, giving them greater influence and standing within the Ukrainian community.
Upon uncovering the captivating tale of this tradition, our eagerness to share it with the world was undeniable. Yet, we were determined not to sacrifice our heritage for the sake of clothing. Instead, we embarked on a journey to replicate this material, to revive the technique from its roots to the finished garment. Our mission is to demonstrate that sustainable, ethically sourced textile can be produced regeneratively and locally right here in Europe.
Our Community
We all know that the fashion and textile industry is losing valuable skills and knowledge. Traditional materials and techniques are disappearing. While the fashion world shines, the true art of textile and garment work often goes unnoticed. At HERECO, we’re changing that. We’re celebrating, supporting, and inspiring our artisan community. Textile is an art that must be saved. That’s why our artisans come first – building a community and caring for their well-being is our main focus.
Fair trade prodution
Partnering with local artisan collectives in Ukraine, we are embracing, modernising, and preserving ancient traditional techniques to craft what might just be Europe’s most sustainable handmade textile material.
By working with ancient yarns like hemp and linen, we demonstrate that high-quality, sustainable handwoven hemp can be produced in harmony with the environment.
Our Values
Sustainable
By working with ancient yarns like hemp and linen, we champion production of high-quality, sustainable handwoven textile in harmony with the environment
Fair Trade
We build a fully transparent, nearshoring, and ethical supply chain from seed to final garment. Celebrating the craftsmanship of textile and garment workers
Community
We preserve and modernise handwoven textile traditions to empower rural communities in Ukraine. Our goal is to support Ukrainian families affected by the war
Transitioning fashion industry together
Ready to join us in empowering artisans and embracing regenerative practices? Let’s collaborate and build a sustainable future together.
get involved
Building holistic collaborations
Our journey has taught us that artisans flourish when their craft is embraced, appreciated, and cherished. Discover how we partner with brands to expand the community of regenerative artisans.
