Inflatable space habitats undergo testing

October 1, 2023  |  Swatches

Inflatable habitats are not only under development for the moon but also low Earth orbit (LEO). Sierra Space Corp. and Blue Origin are two of the organizations involved with the Orbital Reef, the first commercial space station. The goal is having it operational before the end of the decade because t…
Sailboat canvas renovation maximizes cockpit space

October 1, 2023  |  Projects

This award-winning marine canvas project by Keri Ames, owner of Yachtsman’s Canvas of North Wales, Pa., achieved the goal of maintaining a traditional look but with subtle modern updates. It consisted of a dodger with frame, bimini with frame and a connector between the two. The project was part o…
Chemical recycling may offer a solution to textile waste

October 1, 2023  |  Markets, Product Trends

As the detrimental environmental impact of the textile and apparel industries becomes better known and understood, great effort is being expended to become greener, with the recycling of textiles receiving considerable attention.
Develop a business culture of creativity

October 1, 2023  |  Business, Markets

I was recently speaking with one of my coaching clients and the subject of professional curiosity came up. Curiosity is a catalyst for creativity, problem-solving and continuous improvement. By creating a culture of curiosity, we can tap into the collective creativity of the people who work with us …
Auxetic knits provide protective, durable solider uniforms

October 1, 2023  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

We wear textiles for protection from the elements—walking in the rain, shielding ourselves from the sun, or even removing dinner from the oven. It’s interesting to consider what goes into making these everyday textiles, but it’s also interesting to consider how they are made. What are the step…
Textiles enhance public and private spaces

October 1, 2023  |  Features

The great urban critic Jane Jacobs—known for her highly influential and transformative 1961 book The Death and Life of Great American Cities—noted that there are many repeatable factors that can determine the success of public spaces, not the least being that any neighborhood could be deemed wel…
Aerospace textiles: To the moon and back … and beyond

October 1, 2023  |  Features

Explorers may not yet have achieved Buzz Lightyear’s ability to go “to infinity and beyond,” but with innovative aerospace technology we’ve already headed to the moon and low Earth orbit (LEO) and have sights set on Mars. The future of life beyond Earth continues to be rife with possibilitie…