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Solving a global problem
March 1st, 2022
Back in January, we told you about the labor shortage affecting many American industries (page 22, Specialty Fabrics Review, January 2022). But even as more people get vaccinated against COVID-19 and the economy gains strength, labor shortages continue to perplex businesses not just in the U.S. but around the world. How can the textiles industry […]
New textiles from old scarves
March 1st, 2022
A sample collection of all the deconstructive textile techniques. Material and textile designer Anabel Poh has made an art form of deconstructing scarves and reconstructing them into new designs and patterns. Called Meaningful Deconstruction, Poh currently uses scarves that are left over from the production process by Petit H, a studio founded by Hermès. The […]
Study names most effective alternative face coverings
March 1st, 2022
A selection of commercially available face coverings. Photo: Debora Cartagena, USCDCP. As the Omicron variant surges, the CDC is expected to issue more robust mask guidelines. When PPE is not available many people resort to homemade alternatives, such as bandanas and neck gaiters. Seshadri Ramkumar, a professor in Texas Tech University’s Department of Environmental Toxicology, […]
DNA markers key to tracing recycled fibers
March 1st, 2022
A display showing various types of recycled fibers with DNA marking. Photo: Soorty. As circularity begins to take prominence in the textile world, a traceable supply chain is becoming the marker of companies serious about sustainability. Mills are seeking solutions to trace recycled fibers. Pakistan-based denim manufacturer Soorty has partnered with the Swiss technology company […]
Reusable Microballoon used for photos
March 1st, 2022
A graphic depicting where Microballoons fit into the scheme of things, as compared to satellites and aircraft. Colorado-based Urban Sky’s new Microballoon was designed to take high-resolution aerial photos at low cost. Each reusable Microballoon unit consists of a small reusable stratospheric balloon and a payload module that includes a high-res optical camera. While still […]
Arsenal uses a familiar pattern
March 1st, 2022
The new Arsenal pre-game jerseys will incorporate a pattern familiar to London’s tube riders. Photo: Adidas. Adidas has collaborated with London’s public transport network Transport for London to launch a “football kit” (the standard equipment and attire worn by players) for the English soccer club Arsenal that uses a pattern found on Underground train seats. […]
Showers for the homeless
March 1st, 2022
Homelessness is a growing problem in the U.S. but a program to provide showers offers dignity to the disadvantaged. Photo: JM Suarez. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development estimates that more than 580,000 people are homeless in the country. Through its national program to combat homelessness, Standard Textile has partnered with non-profit organizations […]
Prototype garment beats AI algorithms
March 1st, 2022
A German consortium has developed apparel capable of confusing AI algorithms used to track human behavior. Photo: WertelOberfell. German design studio WertelOberfell, in collaboration with a consortium of technical partners, sought to find a way to protect people from a very modern hazard: CCTVs equipped with AI human-recognition algorithms that are capable of human detection […]
Graphene technology goes commercial
March 1st, 2022
While graphene is recognized as one of the thinnest, lightest and most heat-conductive materials available, it has been considered too costly for commercial apparel. Reebok International Limited’s THERMOWARM + GRAPHENE sportswear collection utilizes graphene as a grid print in the garments’ most pivotal heat retention zones to absorb and retain body heat. Reebok says that […]
Fruit waste transformed into fabric
March 1st, 2022
PEELSPHERE® is a fully circular material made from fruit waste and algae through advanced material engineering. Designed for circularity, the durable, versatile and biodegradable material offers an alternative to leather and synthetic leather. It is also semi-transparent, flexible, strong, water resistant and antibacterial. The company, founded by Youyang Song and based in Berlin, uses Oeko-Tex […]