A broad view of narrow fabrics

October 1, 2026  |  Markets, Product Trends

In some ways, narrow fabrics are a STALWART segment of the textiles industry, says Ted Fetterman, vice president of sales and marketing at Bally Ribbon Mills in Bally, Pa. “What’s nice about that is there’s a stability.”
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The challenges in recycling aramids

September 1, 2026  |  Markets, Product Trends

Recycling textiles is a formidable challenge being researched around the world. But when the materials have been designed to be the toughest, strongest, most durable materials out there, made to protect people’s lives, the task of trying to recycle them is next level. Even though textile recycling…
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Fabric architecture projects: immersive environments

August 1, 2026  |  Markets, Product Trends

A goal among design firms in recent years has been to create immersive environments. In fact, that trend surfaced on the 2026 trends predictions list released by architecture and design firm Gensler.
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Thread suppliers tailor innovation to customers’ needs

July 1, 2026  |  Markets, Product Trends

External market pressures are everywhere in the textile industry. To succeed, thread manufacturers focus on service and developing products in response to their customers’ needs. Growth areas are in specialty niches and supported by internal R&D.
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High standards, innovation in truck cover fabric performance

June 1, 2026  |  Markets, Product Trends

Every tarp on a highway is a small engineering project in motion. At 65 mph, a cover is not just keeping a load compliant; it is resisting abrasion at tie-down points, surviving UV exposure and cycling through heat and cold. For truck tarp and cover fabricators and the suppliers that serve them, the…
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Geotextiles and geogrids mean longer-lasting roads

April 1, 2026  |  Markets, Product Trends

Can geotextiles and geogrids help build roadways that last for 100 years—or longer? Yes, say both industry and transportation representatives, although wider adaptation may require overcoming a few bumps in the road.
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PFAS testing: What textile companies need to know

March 1, 2026  |  Markets, Product Trends

Many jurisdictions have current and forthcoming regulations banning per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in a variety of products, including textiles. Laboratory testing can help prove compliance with such bans of these so-called “forever chemicals,” although not without some caveats and c…
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Want to add powder coating or electrostatic painting?

January 5, 2026  |  Markets, Product Trends

To expand beyond their core business, some awning companies may offer ancillary services. A painting service, either powder coating or electrostatic painting (ESP), is one option. Two Advanced Textiles Association member companies offer their insights on why they chose the technology and how the abi…
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