Smart textile technologies enhancing structures — and more

September 1, 2026  |  Advanced Textiles, Markets

In the early years of development, smart textiles and e-textiles were commonly referred to as “smart materials and systems.” In the 1990s, early adopters saw attendant technologies as crucial for operating systems such as structural health monitoring of infrastructure or earthquake warning syste…
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Researchers develop on-body robotic fabrication

September 1, 2026  |  Swatches

Researchers at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed InSituWear, a robotic fabrication method that can weave custom wearables directly onto the human body.
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3D-printed fashion without the plastic

September 1, 2026  |  Swatches

The next step in Danit Peleg’s 10-year journey to create 3D-printed fashion on demand just passed its biggest hurdle yet: being able to create soft, wearable garments at scale using no plastics.
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Beer, whiskey by-products become leather alternatives

September 1, 2026  |  Swatches

Arda Biomaterials, headquartered in London, England, turns waste from beer and whiskey production into New Grain™, an animal- and plastic-free leather alternative.
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From vineyard waste to sustainable leather

September 1, 2026  |  Swatches

Planet of the Grapes, based in France, makes sustainable leather alternatives from vineyard waste for clothing, accessories and car seats, among other products.
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Soccer jerseys made from recycled textiles

September 1, 2026  |  Swatches

The soccer jerseys sported by athletes in the FIFA World Cup this summer were the first by Nike to be made from 100% recycled textile waste. Advanced chemical recycling created the polyester yarn that the company says is as good as virgin material.
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Textile artists present solo exhibitions

September 1, 2026  |  Swatches

Textile artists Anne von Freyburg, based in London, England, and Maria Guzmán Capron, based in California, had the opportunity to present their work in solo exhibitions in the U.S.
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Expanding sustainable, bio-based fabrics

September 1, 2026  |  Features

When something moves from being a buzzword to becoming part of everyday lexicon, it’s an indication that a foothold has been firmly established. This is the case with sustainability. At one time thought to be an issue for a small subset of consumers, it has moved into the mainstream, fueled by tho…
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Your mission: Invest in a leadership-ready workforce

September 1, 2026  |  Business, Features

Manufacturers are always competing for skilled operators, production leaders and capable managers. One highly trained workforce to enlist is transitioning military veterans.
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India offers opportunities for U.S. textile companies

September 1, 2026  |  Industry in Focus, Markets

India has long been an important player in the global textile industry, and a new trade deal between the United States and India aims to make the market more accessible to U.S. textile companies. Announced in February, the deal reduces tariffs, simplifies market access and strengthens economic coope…
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