  A protocol is discussed for preparing a spin chain in a generic many-body
state in the asymptotic limit of tailored non-unitary dynamics. The dynamics
require the spectral resolution of the target state, optimized coherent pulses,
engineered dissipation, and feedback. As an example, we discuss the preparation
of an entangled antiferromagnetic state, and argue that the procedure can be
applied to chains of trapped ions or Rydberg atoms.
