#ITMA Asia + CITME 2026

2026-10-30

KARL MAYER expands TM WEFT capabilities for fashion fabrics at ITMA ASIA 2026

A new E 36 gauge, an EL pattern drive and improved yarn tension regulation extend the application possibilities of KARL MAYER's TM WEFT warp knitting machine. At ITMA ASIA 2026, the company will demonstrate the developments alongside a collection of woven-like warp knitted fabrics for fashion and apparel.

KARL MAYER is expanding the capabilities of its TM WEFT warp knitting machine with weft insertion to address growing demand for versatile and efficiently manufactured fashion fabrics. The latest developments will be presented at ITMA ASIA 2026 in Shanghai, together with a collection of woven-like warp knitted textiles developed at the company's TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER.

Woven-like warp knitted fabrics combine the appearance of woven textiles with characteristics associated with warp knitting, including production efficiency, dimensional stability, wrinkle resistance and wearing comfort.

Depending on the construction and materials used, the manufacturing process can also reduce the need for certain finishing operations compared with conventional woven fabric production.

In addition to two- and three-bar tricot machines, KARL MAYER uses the TM WEFT for this category of fabrics. The machine is particularly suited to processing materials such as effect yarns, linen and acetate fibres.

Lightweight woven-like warp knitted fabric produced on KARL MAYER’s TM WEFT. The new collection features flowing drape, crêpe-like textures and subtle transparency, with the lightest fabric weighing just 63 g/m².

New machine features increase flexibility

KARL MAYER has further developed the TM WEFT specifically for fashion and apparel applications.

One of the main innovations is the introduction of an E 36 gauge, enabling the production of finer fabrics and expanding the range of possible textile constructions.

The machine is also equipped with a new EL pattern drive, which provides greater flexibility and speed in pattern development.

Another improvement concerns yarn tension management. The system now continuously regulates thread tension instead of relying on conventional control, simplifying machine operation and supporting consistent fabric quality.

Together, these developments are intended to increase production flexibility while enabling manufacturers to respond more efficiently to changing fashion requirements.

Woven-like fabrics for autumn and winter collections

To demonstrate the versatility of the TM WEFT, KARL MAYER's TEXTILE INNOVATION CENTER has developed two contrasting fabric series for ITMA ASIA 2026.

The first focuses on dense, textured fabrics designed for autumn and winter fashion.

These materials combine structured surfaces with different visual and functional characteristics. One example uses LYCRA® T400® to provide stretch and wearing comfort in a crêpe-like fabric.

Another construction incorporates metallic yarns to create decorative accents within a bouclé-inspired surface.

A further development uses a burnout technique to partially open the fabric structure, producing a floral pattern with contrasting transparent and opaque areas.

The collection illustrates how warp knitting with weft insertion can be used to create differentiated surface structures and fashion effects.

Lightweight constructions inspired by chiffon

The second fabric series focuses on lightweight materials with flowing drape, crêpe-like textures and varying degrees of transparency.

The lightest fabric in the collection weighs just 63 g/m².

Different fibre materials contribute to the appearance and tactile properties of the textiles. Acetate provides a smooth surface and subtle sheen, while viscose creates a softer handle and a more natural feel.

The collection also includes a cotton-blend fabric featuring a clean striped design rather than the crinkled surfaces used in other constructions.

According to KARL MAYER, the lightweight fabrics are particularly suitable for applications requiring flowing silhouettes and light, comfortable materials, including garments for Muslim women's fashion.

Live demonstration at ITMA ASIA 2026

KARL MAYER will present the new woven-like fabric collection at ITMA ASIA 2026, taking place from 20 to 24 November at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in Shanghai.

Visitors can explore the materials and discuss their production and application possibilities with the company's specialists at Hall 4.1, Booth C18, for warp knitting, and Hall 3, Booth A24, for warp preparation.

In parallel with the exhibition, KARL MAYER (China) will host a product show in Changzhou, where the upgraded TM WEFT will demonstrate its performance in the production of fashion and apparel fabrics.

The presentation will highlight the machine's new technical features and their potential for manufacturing finer, more complex woven-like warp knitted textiles.

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India‘s textile industry is undergoing a profound transformation: What was previously a production hub driven primarily by cost and volume is increasingly evolving into a market focused on technology, exports, and value creation. KARL MAYER supports this change with high-performance machinery solutions and innovative textile concepts, and is therefore looking forward to INDIA ITME 2026 with great anticipation.

Long John puts KARL MAYER's RDJ 7/3 into operation and strengthens its position as a market leader

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KARL MAYER invites the Global Textile Industry to celebrate its 90th anniversary at its German Headquarters in 2027

KARL MAYER is turning its anniversary year 2027 into a milestone for the textile sector. To mark its 90th anniversary, the industry leader is inviting customers, partners, and experts from around the world to a unique event series in September aimed at pushing boundaries, unlocking new opportunities, and jointly setting the course for a new era in textiles – just as KARL MAYER has done throughout its history. The company’s headquarters in Obertshausen, near Frankfurt, is the place to be.

Vandewiele to showcase weaving innovations and automation solutions at ITMA Asia 2026

At ITMA ASIA + CITME 2026, taking place from November 20 to 24 in Shanghai, Vandewiele will present a broad range of technologies for weaving, carpet manufacturing, tufting, yarn processing and automation. The company's innovations focus on increasing productivity, improving process efficiency, reducing resource consumption and providing greater flexibility in textile manufacturing. Visitors can explore the latest developments at Booth D01 in Hall 3 of the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC).

Picanol to unveil new AirOne airjet weaving machine at ITMA Asia 2026

From November 20 to 24, 2026, Picanol will present the world premiere of its new AirOne generation of airjet weaving machines at ITMA Asia + CITME in Shanghai. Developed in response to the latest requirements in basic woven fabric production, AirOne marks an important expansion of Picanol’s airjet weaving portfolio. Featuring a newly developed crank shedding motion, the machine combines high performance and low energy consumption with advanced digitalisation and ease of operation.

Lenzing improves profitability as strategic transformation gains momentum

The Lenzing Group reported improved operating profitability in the first nine months of 2026 despite declining revenue and a challenging market environment. Revenue decreased by 2.3 percent to EUR 1.93 billion, while adjusted EBITDA remained stable at EUR 353 million. The adjusted EBITDA margin increased from 17.9 percent to 18.3 percent, reflecting progress in the company's strategic transformation under its “Grow Nonwovens. Reset Textiles.” strategy.

Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris marks 30th anniversary with a redesigned exhibition concept

Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris will celebrate its 30th anniversary from 25 to 27 January 2027 at the Paris-Le-Bourget Exhibition Centre. With more than 1,000 international exhibitors expected, the anniversary edition will introduce a redesigned exhibition layout across Halls 3 and 4, bringing fabric manufacturers and garment producers closer together. The event will also highlight Spring-Summer 2028 trends, sustainable sourcing and new opportunities for international textile trade.