Light-responsive, AI-powered soft robotic arm

November 1, 2025  |  Swatches

Researchers at Rice University have created an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered soft robotic arm made from a new light-responsive elastomer. The research could lead to new ways to control implantable biomedical devices or manufacturing equipment for handling delicate objects.
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Vanessa Barragão creates marine-life-inspired textile art

November 1, 2025  |  Swatches

Portuguese textile artist Vanessa Barragão creates large artworks made from discarded wool and synthetic fibers. Her inspiration is aquatic plants and animals.
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Cephalopods influence soft robot research

November 1, 2025  |  Swatches

Inspired by the color-changing ability of cephalopods such as octopi and squid, University of Nebraska–Lincoln researchers are developing a material that could one day be used in sensors and soft robotics applications. Because the stretchy “synthetic skin” is self-actuating, it wouldn’t need…
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‘Living’ ink decomposes polymer substrates

November 1, 2025  |  Swatches

One avenue of materials research involves biodegradable substrates. These materials have enzymes or bacteria as a part of their makeup so that when the products reach their end of life, they do not become part of the global textile waste problem. The GROWinK project is similar, although the ink, rat…
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Specialty Fabrics Review celebrates 110-year anniversary

November 1, 2025  |  Swatches

As our industry has evolved over the past century-plus, so has the magazine you’re reading now. And if you’re reading this online, the web and digital-only publications are definitely part of it. What began in November 1915 with the first publication of The National Tent & Awning Manufacture…
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Registration open for Fiber Week 2026

November 1, 2025  |  Swatches

Fiber Week, an annual weeklong event at North House Folk School in Grand Marais, Minn., offers attendees the opportunity to explore fiber arts, from knitting and weaving to natural dyeing. The event includes workshops, craft nights and guest speakers.
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Made in the Shade Tent Rentals: From a side gig to festivals

November 1, 2025  |  Features

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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Composites provide durability and longevity

November 1, 2025  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

While composites and rigid structures may not seem to have much in common with textiles, they do often feature soft goods for a variety of purposes. Many examples were on display at this year’s JEC World composites trade show, demonstrating how textiles are being used in products, such as sporting…
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