TEXTILES.ORG
Marine fabricators’ shade innovations
November 1st, 2023
Because of supply chain shortages affecting the availability of carbon fiber poles, MarineRennavators decided to make its own, shown here. Utilizing new 3D printer technology, the company created a carbon fiber sleeve system that allows it to manufacture different diameter poles with corresponding sleeve systems. Image: MarineRennavators LLC Changing consumer trends, evolving boat designs, and […]
10 business lessons from Southern Stitch of Gulfport, Miss.
August 1st, 2023
There’s a saying that chance favors the prepared. Sometimes that preparation can take some surprising forms. Just ask Steven Wayne, founder and operator at Southern Stitch Canvas & Upholstery LLC in Gulfport, Miss. When he was growing up, Wayne was much more interested in car audio systems than upholstery. When he landed a sales job […]
2023 Specialty Fabrics Showcase, Part 2
May 1st, 2023
Awnings, tents, shade sails, marine upholstery, protective gear, furniture: Regardless of the end product, the fabric needs to perform in harsh conditions while looking good, keeping the planet green and fitting into a client’s budget. For our two-part annual showcase, we asked contributors to send us information about their latest high-performance textiles. We’ve organized the […]
CONNECT with fellow ATA members
December 13th, 2022
The Advanced Textiles Association (formerly IFAI) announces the launch of Peer Groups on CONNECT by ATA for members of the Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA) and Marine Fabricators Association (MFA) divisions. This new group offers an opportunity for members to share resources, find answers and network with industry peers.Included features:• Discussions—You’ll have the ability to […]
A focus on what we do best
April 1st, 2022
If a college friend hadn’t had extra space in a harborside building he was renting in downtown Bellingham, Greg Keeler may have never started up Washington-based marine canvas company Oyster Creek Canvas Co. After earning a degree in environmental policy and assessment, the lifelong boating enthusiast had spent several years in a related desk job. […]
Tough, versatile PVC
October 1st, 2020
Featuring a buttery soft hand, Challenger PVC is treated with Endurepel Armour performance finish and offers excellent durability. This versatile PVC is a strong performer across multiple markets including marine, awning and industrial. It has the soft feel of leather and demonstrates both durability and strength. It is offered in numerous style options featuring single […]
2019 State of the Industry
March 1st, 2019
Economic growth in 2018 increased in the United States: Gross Domestic Product (GDP) reached 3.0 percent for the first time since 2005. Unfortunately, growth has been down in other advanced economies such as Canada, Japan and Europe. Growth in the emerging economy of China was also down in 2018—reaching 6.6 percent. China’s GDP is projected […]
Recommended fabric cleaning products
September 1st, 2018
It’s pretty simple. People buy boats because they want to have fun. The reality, however, is that work—the opposite of fun—is required to keep any watercraft in tip-top condition. Therein lies the rub. “A lot of boaters don’t want to do all the cleaning and maintenance,” says Marianne Iosso, vice president of Iosso® Products of […]
Added value experiences keep the customers around
July 30th, 2018
Delivering an added-value experience can help companies pull ahead of the pack, giving customers the incentive to return—while also elevating the business and the entire industry. It can be challenging to stand out from the scrum of companies clamoring for attention and business. More challenging still is inspiring the kind of loyalty that keeps customers […]
Complete coverage
March 1st, 2018
In the marine upholstery industry, covering three-dimensional shapes requires the right design and fabric. It’s all about getting a smooth, secure form fit that won’t loosen over time. That was the challenge Tammy Hampton, owner of Buford, Ga.-based Cover Girl Marine Canvas and Upholstery, faced when fabricating a cover for a recent project—a large marine […]