Suitable for use with both conveyor and static cutting systems, the LeatherPRO system helps customers working with leather where detection of flaws in the hide is required. Digital defect marking allows up to two operators to mark imperfections simultaneously, allowing the marking of an entire hide in approximately 2.5 minutes. System handles up to six [...]

Fisher Textiles has added updated styles in its digital printable fabric line for direct dye sublimation printing, all available 122 inches wide. DD 7866 Vistatex (FR) passes NFPA 701 and Title 19, is bright white and stable in both directions, often used in aluminum framing applications. DD 7817 Soft Knit (FR) is now stocked flame [...]

Arcus Temporum XI, a three-day spiritual exercise blending music, theater and art, focused on the theme “a search for place” during the August 2012 event. The festival site, the Archabbey of Pannonhalma, Hungary, is a historic monument with a breathtaking view of Lake Balaton—and a boarding school gym that had to serve as a concert [...]

The Sustainable Textile Production (STeP) program by OEKO-TEX®. The International OEKO-TEX® Association, Zurich, Switzerland, is currently working on an optimized, independent certification for environmentally friendly and socially responsible companies. The objective is to provide globally operating textile brands, retail companies and manufacturers along the textile value chain with trustworthy and transparent documentation of their sustainable [...]

A walkway above a fabric structure offers an adventurous experience—and a spectacular view of London. This is no walk in the park. The “Up at The O2” adventurer is 53 meters above the ground—safely tethered to the structure—but still, on a walkway only 3 meters wide and 350 meters long, suspended in the air over [...]

IAA award-winning safety and protective projects tackle unique challenges and succeed. Imagine a 41,000-ton U.S. Navy vessel traveling at seven knots in choppy three-meter-high seas. It is carrying a heavy load of vehicles and container freight. Because of an emergency, the vehicles and containers need to be transferred from this vessel to a supply ship, [...]

Is your alarm going off? By Wayne Mertel Time is ticking away until the next (and most important) date for implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly referred to as health care reform. On Jan. 1, 2014 (on Oct. 1, 2013, employees must be notified), many of the most impactful requirements regarding the mandates, [...]

Part II discusses specific market segments and international industry participants. By Jeff Rasmussen Successful specialty fabrics organizations have made significant investments since 2009 to improve efficiencies in their organizations. They have emphasized a culture in their businesses that focuses resources on perpetual innovation in improving existing products and introducing new products. They have also done [...]

Thread manufacturers keep pace with fabric improvements for consistently reliable performance in end products. By Carla Waldemar You come home with the stylish new jacket you’ve had your eye on—perfect color, perfect fit and a fabric that’ll outlive you—only to find that, all too soon, the seams are starting to give way. Disappointing in a [...]

The push and pull of tradition and fashion keep fabrics and fabricators in touch with customers. By Dara Syrkin The first quarter of each year is rife with predictions. Will the clothing color trends you see in Sunday newspaper advertisements appear in your customers’ boats? Maybe. Has technology responded to boat owners’ needs and desires? [...]