Made in the Shade Tent Rentals: From a side gig to festivals

November 1, 2025  |  Features, Perspective

Whether it’s a huge concert, street festival, corporate gala or other large event where a sea of tents suddenly materializes to house the festivities, Made in the Shade Tent Rentals (MITS), based in West Sacramento, Calif., specializes in this kind of practical magic.
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Even military textile companies need diversification

November 1, 2025  |  Features

Having a customer with an almost $850 billion budget sounds like a potential boon for most companies—and it is. But if that purchaser is a company’s sole customer, that exposure comes with risk, even if the customer is the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD).
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Soft robots aim to accomplish tough jobs

November 1, 2025  |  Features

While the topic of soft robotics is primarily exclusive to the academic and research world, it is still targeted at specific markets and applications. From the medical field and agriculture to search and rescue missions, soft robots may offer a solution.
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Masson Inc. transforms ideas into innovative products

October 1, 2025  |  Features, Perspective

At first glance, the custom manufacturing solutions produced by Masson Inc. of Indianapolis, Ind., might seem simple. From coated webbing assemblies for the medical market to urethane-coated pet collars, the company’s products pair a modest outward design with practical purpose.
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Innovators move the textile industry forward

October 1, 2025  |  Features

These are uncertain times, particularly for segments of the textile industry that import and export raw and finished products around the globe. Still, success in textiles often requires innovation and even risk. Those who are not willing or able to accept the risk that comes with innovation are more…
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Textile equipment manufacturers on doing business worldwide

October 1, 2025  |  Features

Companies that conduct business internationally benefit from a large customer base and market diversity. But at times, they must grapple with supply chain disruptions, contentious geopolitics and the interplay of various cultural dynamics—even getting everyone together on a Teams chat at a reasona…
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Advanced Textiles Expo 2025 Show Preview

September 1, 2025  |  Features

Join thousands of textile professionals as Advanced Textiles Expo comes to the Midwest. The industry’s flagship event brings a full offering of networking, innovation and education to Indianapolis in 2025. Connect with the industry for four days of excitement and check out everything Advanced Text…
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Tent-tacular projects

September 1, 2025  |  Features

Tent rental companies must be prepared to tackle any disruption or surprise while on the job to ensure successful events and happy clients. Three tent rental companies—National Structures Events & Services, Organic-Concept and Stamford Tent & Event Services—achieved their clients’ goal…
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Compliance with FAA regs is key to doing aviation work

September 1, 2025  |  Features

Aircraft of all types and sizes are filled with textiles that may require an expert upholsterer or fabricator’s skills to repair or refresh. Customers can range from hobbyists restoring aircraft to regional rescue crews or even companies servicing private jets. Here’s what your business needs to…
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A new strategy expanded clientele of American Awning & Blind

August 1, 2025  |  Features, Perspective

In 2014, Ethan Halpern moved from the music classroom as a teacher to the shop floor as president and owner of American Awning & Blind Co. in North Hollywood, Calif. A family friend owned the business and offered Halpern the opportunity to buy it. U.S.-based and financially strong with a customi…
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