INNOVATION & INSIGHTS
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The story of what happens when young designers access digital technology is still being written.
What once was a theoretical sustainability goal seems to have shifted into an active regulatory reality.
In this podcast episode, James Watson, Managing Director of Surface Print, discussed the evolution of his fourth-generation family business in Lancashire.
Surface Print combines traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation- investing £2 million in a hybrid rotary screen Gravure machine and £600,000 in new HP digital printers.
The company achieved ISO 14001 accreditation, introduced solar panels, and plans to install a new boiler and water recirculation system. Watson emphasised the importance of balancing traditional techniques with modern technologies to maintain quality and sustainability. The company also leverages AI for efficiency and marketing, while maintaining a family-oriented work culture.
Listen to learn more >>
In this roundtable, NedGraphics President Frank Maeder and 10Duke CEO Neil Fenton unpack one of the least glamorous - but most business critical - topics in creative production: Software licensing.
Together, they explore why legacy hardware dongles and static license keys are holding the industry back, how COVID exposed their limitations, and why user‑centric, identity‑based licensing is now essential for global, hybrid workflows. From roaming designers in New York to production teams in remote factories, they reveal how to remove friction, reduce downtime, and keep creative tools securely in the hands of the people who need them.
If you’re in fashion, design, CAD/CAM, or any creative production environment and want to future‑proof your software delivery, this discussion is packed with insight and real‑world examples.
Watch to learn more >>
Is the Textile Market Finally Recovering?
After a difficult few years, there are genuine reasons for optimism. Duncan was candid about the challenges: "The market for textiles has been very difficult over the last three years. I'm not going to hide the truth there. But the tide is turning.“
Manchester – August 2026 – Premier Digital Textiles today highlights its 2555 Dimout, a versatile, dual-purpose fabric designed to bridge the worlds of fashion and interior design.
With its distinctive silver finish and subtle sheen, the fabric is positioned as a premium material for designers and makers operating across both industries.
2555 Dimout features a smooth silver surface that lends itself naturally to elegant occasionwear, flowing garments, and bold statement pieces.
Its fluid drape and refined aesthetic make it particularly well-suited to summer collections, where lightness and visual impact are equally valued.
Oswestry – Shropshire – August 2026 - Fujifilm Ink, the UK-based global supplier of UV inkjet technology, has strengthened its partnership with China Print Supplies UK Ltd (CPS), becoming the recognised ink supplier for the company's range of Dlican UV printing systems.
The partnership follows the successful rollout of Fujifilm Ink's thermoforming flexible ink technology, reinforcing the company's commitment to delivering high-performance, application-specific ink solutions for the wide-format print market.
Birmingham, UK – July 2026 – swissQprint UK is set to exhibit at The Print Show 2026, taking place from 29 September to 1 October at the NEC in Birmingham, Great Britain.
Visitors can find the swissQprint UK team at Stand P420, where they will have the opportunity to experience the company's latest flatbed printing technology firsthand.
Paris, France – August 2026 – Optitex and NedGraphics will present their integrated design and manufacturing solutions at Première Vision Paris, taking place from 1st to 3rd September 2026 at Parc des Expositions, Paris Nord Villepinte, France.
Visitors can find the companies at Booth 3L11 in Hall 3, Smart Creation Area.
The joint appearance marks a significant opportunity for textile brands and manufacturers to experience first-hand how NedGraphics and Optitex deliver a unified workflow — one that connects textile design, colour refinement, and end product development within a single, seamless process.
Emmerich am Rhein, Nordrhein-Westfalen – August 2026 – Brother Industrial EMEA has announced the launch of its GTX300, a hybrid direct-to-garment (DTG) and direct-to-film (DTF) garment printer that the company says sets a new benchmark for textile print quality.
To mark the occasion, Brother Industrial EMEA is offering eligible print professionals across the EMEA region a complimentary demo package to experience the printer's capabilities firsthand.
FREMONT, CA. August , 2026 – Fiery, a global leader in digital printing technology, has announced the launch of a new free online course designed to help print professionals master colour management for direct-to-film (DTF), direct-to-garment (DTG), and UV printing workflows.
The course, Fiery Specialty Production 301 v1: Colour Management Basics in Digital Factory, is now available on Fiery's learning platform at no cost.
Geretsried, Bavaria, August 2026 – RUDOLF, a leading textile chemistry company, has announced the launch of its Summer Campaign, a dedicated series exploring advanced finishing technologies designed to enhance the performance, comfort, and protection of swimwear and summer apparel.
The campaign arrives at a time when the demands placed on modern swimwear are greater than ever. Prolonged sun exposure, repeated contact with water, and the physical demands of summer activities require textiles that go beyond attractive design.
RUDOLF's Summer Campaign aims to demonstrate how the right finishing technologies can meet these challenges head-on.
Frankfurt, Germany – August 2026 – Heimtextil, the world's leading trade fair for home and contract textiles, has announced the launch of the Italian Lounge, a dedicated exhibition space celebrating Italian craftsmanship at its 2027 edition.
Taking place from 12 to 15 January in Frankfurt, the Italian Lounge will be located in the heart of Hall 4.1 and will bring together manufacturers of decorative and furniture fabrics, leather, and fibres and yarns under one roof
Manchester – August 2026 – Premier Digital Textiles today highlights its 2555 Dimout, a versatile, dual-purpose fabric designed to bridge the worlds of fashion and interior design.
With its distinctive silver finish and subtle sheen, the fabric is positioned as a premium material for designers and makers operating across both industries.
2555 Dimout features a smooth silver surface that lends itself naturally to elegant occasionwear, flowing garments, and bold statement pieces.
Its fluid drape and refined aesthetic make it particularly well-suited to summer collections, where lightness and visual impact are equally valued.
In this roundtable, NedGraphics President Frank Maeder and 10Duke CEO Neil Fenton unpack one of the least glamorous - but most business critical - topics in creative production: Software licensing.
Together, they explore why legacy hardware dongles and static license keys are holding the industry back, how COVID exposed their limitations, and why user‑centric, identity‑based licensing is now essential for global, hybrid workflows. From roaming designers in New York to production teams in remote factories, they reveal how to remove friction, reduce downtime, and keep creative tools securely in the hands of the people who need them.
If you’re in fashion, design, CAD/CAM, or any creative production environment and want to future‑proof your software delivery, this discussion is packed with insight and real‑world examples.
Watch to learn more >>
Join us in Barcelona at the Epson booth as Debbie McKeegan the FESPA Textile Ambassador talks with Duncan Ferguson, Vice President, Commercial and Industrial Printing at Epson Europe, about the future of textile printing.
We explore how digital product passports, sustainable production, and advanced solutions like the Monna Lisa 13000 and SureColor SC-F20000 are reshaping the UK and European textile markets.
Watch to learn more >>
Join us at the FESPA exhibition in Barcelona as Debbie McKeegan the FESPA Textile Ambassador speak with Micol Gamba of EFI Reggiani to explore the new ecoNEXT Plus pigment printing solution for home textiles.
We discuss how this waterless, beltless, industrial-level printer simplifies digital production, supports local manufacturing, delivers high-quality colour (including a unique violet), and provides detailed data on energy and water consumption to meet today’s sustainability and digital product passport demands.
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Join Debbie McKeegan in Barcelona as she talks with Dr. Simon from Sun Chemical about the future of textile printing.
They discuss the launch of Zenia Sapphire pigment inks with upgraded wash fastness, the slow but crucial shift from analog to digital textile printing, and how education, skills, and supply-chain partnerships can unlock on-demand, sustainable production.
They also explore upcoming digital product passports, why chemistry and transparency matter, and what the industry must do now to prepare for 2027–2033 compliance.
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Debbie McKeegan, FESPA Textile Ambassador, interviews Charlie Saunders, founder of Tidy Merch, a Swedish print-on-demand company that has transformed its business by shifting from hardware to smart software with Gelato Connect.
Discover how they doubled revenue, kept their team intact, and improved work-life balance by investing in integrated production software instead of more machines.
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Debbie McKeegan, the FESPA Textile Ambassador, talks with Danna Drion from Mimaki about the real value of trade shows in today’s increasingly digital and AI‑driven world.
In this conversation, we discuss why events like FESPA remain essential for the textile print and signage community - offering something you simply can’t get online: human connection. Danna shares Mimaki’s experience of FESPA as a leading global show that consistently delivers strong ROI, high‑quality leads, and a clear view of where the industry is heading.
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In this interview from Techtextil in Frankfurt, Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, speaks with Andreas Rass CEO of Zimmer Austria, about the latest advances in digital textile printing and the current state of the textile and carpet industries.
They introduce Zimmer’s new Coloris 72 digital textile printer platform, designed for higher accessibility, strong remote service, reduced manpower needs, and a water‑recycling blanket washing system that dramatically cuts water consumption and boosts sustainability.
Together, they discuss the growth of technical and military textiles, the resilience of the carpet sector (notably in Turkey), rising energy and polyester costs, and the increasing importance of near‑shoring, secure supply chains, and trusted ink and technology partnerships to build a more sustainable and professional textile industry.
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At Texprocess, Frankfurt, Debbie McKeegan of TexIntel talks with Adam Dakin of Verivide about why LED lighting and color‑accurate workflows are essential for today’s textile, fashion, and home furnishings industries.
They discuss the shift away from fluorescent lighting, how tools like Ultraview light booths, VisionView, and the DigiEye imaging system ensure consistent colour from design to retail, and how virtual colour approvals can cut waste, speed up product development, and help brands meet customer expectations worldwide.
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At Texprocess, Debbie McKeegan of Textintel interviews Zehavit Reisin of Stratasys about their innovative 3D fashion technology which prints directly onto textiles.
Zehavit explains how Stratasys, with 35+ years in 3D printing, uses acrylic-based photopolymers to create durable mechanical adhesion to fabric—strong enough to withstand 40°C machine washes. They explore real-world applications, from haute couture and concept car interiors to defence and wearable tech, all driven by on-demand, sustainable production and customer-led creativity.
The conversation highlights how this technology can personalise and extend the life of garments, support stock-free, on-demand manufacturing at scale, and empower brands to push the boundaries of fashion and textiles.
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In this interview recorded at TexProcess, Frankfurt, we speak with Frank Maeder, head of the team behind NedGraphics and Optitex about how they’re connecting digital textile design and apparel design into one seamless, end-to-end digital workflow.
They explain how integrating textile design with Apparel pattern development across the workflow reduces waste, shortens development cycles, and improves collaboration between brands, manufacturers, and suppliers worldwide. By sharing fabric data and specifications digitally from the start, designers can create the right product first time, every time, boosting creativity while cutting time, cost, and physical sampling.
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Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, interviews Chris Dearing - Vice President of Sustainability at Coats, at the Texprocess trade show in Frankfurt.
Coats, a global thread manufacturer with around 20,000 employees in over 50 countries, has made sustainability central to its strategy, structured around five pillars: energy, materials, water, waste, and people, aligned with the UN SDGs. Chris explains that Coats has SBTi‑aligned 2030 targets and a 2050 net-zero goal, has already cut scope 1 and 2 emissions by 46% from a 2019 baseline, and moved to about 62% renewable electricity with a target of 100% by 2030, including work to electrify fossil-fuel boilers.
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At Texprocess Frankfurt, Debbie McKeegan of Texintel talks with Giovanni Pizzamiglio from Kornit Digital about the new Presto Max Plus.
Giovanni explains how Kornit is evolving from fashion into technical textiles, using a new abrasion-resistant polymer “DuraTech” to create durable, stretchable prints for sportswear, footwear, and even military camouflage.
They discuss replacing complex analog processes with single-step digital printing, precise print positioning on woven fabrics, and new possibilities for interior décor, performance wear, and advanced protective textiles.
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Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, interviews Jaymes Clements from Monster Digital inc. at the Kornit Konnections event in Florida.
Monster Digital, a premier contract print manufacturer, specialises in DTG (Direct-to-Garment) printing, capable of producing over 180,000 prints daily. They own over 70 DTG printers, all industrial-grade, and emphasise continuous capital investment in technology.
Clements highlights their agility in adapting to new technologies and their diverse customer base, including brands, sports teams, and corporate clients. He stresses the importance of strategic relationships over transactional ones, and the need for stability in the supply chain to maintain quality and meet customer expectations.
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Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, interviews Shawn Sckoropad from Printeez Inc, a 10-year-old Canadian print-on-demand company.
Printeez specialises in large volume fulfilment and on-demand services, using proprietary software for seamless integration with stores. They produce up to 350,000 units in bulk per month, and 57,000 units per fortnight on-demand during peak seasons and serve 7,000 users.
Shawn highlights the shift from analog to digital, the development of their own app, and the challenges of building a user-friendly interface. Looking to the future, they aim to double down on e-commerce, expand locally, and explore partnerships in Europe, emphasising agility and focus.
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Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, interviews Alan Gentry from T- Formation about his garment decoration company's evolving transition from analog screen printing to digital printing.
Alan's company, established in 1987, initially handled large volume orders but shifted to smaller orders post-COVID. They discovered the Kornit Apollo at Kornit Konnections in 2024, which prints 350 units an hour, significantly improving efficiency.
Alan's company now uses digital machines alongside screen technology. They also leverage Fullfil Engine for seamless fulfilment, enabling them to handle one-piece orders to thousands efficiently.
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In this exclusive interview from Printwear & Promotion Live in Birmingham, Debbie McKeegan speaks with Rob Simpson, General Manager for DuPont Artistri Digital Printing Solutions, about the launch of DuPont’s new jettable adhesive technology for DTF (Direct-to-Film) printing.
Rob explains how this jettable adhesive replaces traditional powder in the DTF process, delivering a cleaner workflow and opening up new creative and technical possibilities for apparel decorators. DuPont has developed a solution that not only simplifies production but also enables smoother gradients, fade-outs, and more precise control of ink layers.
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In this Texintel Live interview Debbie McKeegan (CEO of Texintel) talks with Julian Wright, Sales Director of Amaya Sales UK about how the garment decoration market is evolving, particularly around Direct-to-Garment (DTG) and Direct-to-Film (DTF) technologies.
They discuss how DTF has surged over the last 3- 4 years, where it fits alongside DTG, and why many customers are unsure when and where to invest. Julian explains how Epson’s standardised, high‑uptime systems and Amaya’s knowledge-led approach help customers choose the right technology mix, from entry-level to more industrial solutions like the Epson SureColor G9000.
The conversation highlights the importance of reliable partners, premium consumables, and future-proof solutions that deliver not just a machine, but a complete, long-term service and ecosystem for growing print businesses.
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In this short interview, they explore how dye sublimation now goes far beyond mugs and T‑shirts, opening up new opportunities in textiles, décor, signage, promotional carpets, and floor graphics.
Duncan explains the TS200’s 8‑colour ink set, including fluorescent pink and fluorescent yellow, plus violet and orange to extend the colour gamut. These neon’s are ideal for fashion, children’s wear, event branding, and décor—especially where brands need high-impact, accurate colour and that on‑trend fluorescent look.
With a competitive entry-level price (under £6,500), a two‑year warranty, and fast, easy-to-use operation, the Mimaki TS200 -1600 offers an accessible way for print businesses to expand into new markets and respond to a broad range of customer demands from a single machine.
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Filmed live at Printwear & Promotion in Birmingham, Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, talks with Grant Cooke, Product Manager: Textile, SureColor Printers, Sublimation, Direct To Film (DTF) & Direct To Garment (DTG) Solutions at Epson Europe B.V about:
Moving from DTG with DTF mode to true roll-to-roll DTF
The evolution from the G6000 to the G9000
64" wide printing, higher throughput, and automated maintenance
How software, shakers, and cutters now integrate for a seamless DTF workflow
If you’re in garment decoration, custom apparel, or screen print looking to go digital, this conversation shows how modern DTF can deliver speed, reliability, and scalable production.
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In this interview, Debbie McKeegan speaks with Colin Marsh, MD at Resolute DTF about a major shift in garment decoration technology.
The launch of jetable adhesives, a new DTF ink innovation developed in collaboration with DuPont, Artistri.
Colin explains how this innovation combines ink and adhesive jetting (using no powder), delivers a soft DTG-like hand feel with high durability on cotton and polyester, and opens up new creative possibilities for printers.
They also discuss Resolute UK-based manufacturing, supply chain control, and steps toward more sustainable and circular production.
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In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan speaks with Johan Spies of HP at FESPA Middle East in Dubai about HP’s latest Latex printing technologies.
They discuss the HP Latex A330 roll-to-roll printer and the R530 hybrid printer, highlighting their water-based inks, ability to print on both flexible and rigid materials, and how these solutions support the fast-growing Middle East market through a strong partnership with Redington.
Both speakers highlight the rapid growth and vast opportunities in the Middle East and Johan’s excitement to return next year and see how customers have grown with HP’s solutions.
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In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan, Texintel CEO and Fespa Textile Ambassador, speaks with Viktor Lazzeri of Barbieri Electronics.
This conversation, recorded live at Fespa Middle East in Dubai, explores the rapidly growing opportunities for the print industry across the region. Barbieri Electronics highlight the strong demand for quality, innovation, and colour accuracy, and the critical role of trusted technology partners in supporting this fast-evolving, increasingly digital market.
Together, the speakers frame the Middle East as a vibrant, optimistic hub where the right print technologies can unlock significant new growth.
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In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan, Texintel CEO and Fespa Textile Ambassador, interviews Jon Bailey of Precision Proco Group in the UK to explore how his company has grown from a local business into a global partnership. John shares insights into the technology stack that underpins their success, their journey of scaling internationally, and the increasing importance of personalisation. Together, we discuss why knowledge sharing, community, and strategic partnerships are essential in today’s connected world, and how clear guiding principles - combined with the willingness to course-correct can drive sustainable growth in fast-evolving markets like the Middle East.
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In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan, Texintel CEO and Fespa Textile Ambassador, interviews Andrew Hobson about Brother Industrial textile technology.
They discuss a t-shirt embellished using a six-needle embroidery machine, heat transfer, and cutting technology. The design includes a gold heat transfer, a tortoise shell pattern, and a reverse 3D effect on the back. This technology adds value and creates a unique, textured appearance, appealing to the Garment Decoration market in the Middle East.
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In this conversation, Steen Mikkelsen of Fastsewn discusses the challenges and innovations in sewing automation.
He highlights the complexities of sewing due to the flexible nature of textiles and the need for precise handling. Mikkelsen shares insights into his innovative solutions that aim to automate sewing processes, reduce handling time, and improve efficiency in manufacturing. The discussion also touches on the future applications of this technology across various industries and the potential for job creation as automation evolves.
In this conversation, Dave Connor discusses the innovative Liquid Ink technology from Stahls' Fulfill Engine, which revolutionises dimensional decorating by allowing real-time design and customisation.
The technology reduces traditional pain-points such as minimum quantities and setup fees, enabling decorators to create premium, tactile products on demand. The discussion also highlights the future of personalisation in merchandise and the global opportunities for printers and garment decorators.
Debbie McKeegan interviews Viktor Lazzeri from Barbieri Electronic at Printing United in Orlando about the critical need for accurate colour measurement in the printing and textile industry.
Viktor explained the rising demand for colour accuracy, showcased Barbieri Electronic's latest spectrophotometers, and emphasised how precise colour measurement improves workflow efficiency, reduces waste, and ensures customer satisfaction.
In this conversation, Oriol Martinez, the director of worldwide sales at Fiery, discusses the latest trends in the printing industry, particularly focusing on the launch of Digital Factory Version 12.
The conversation highlights the importance of colour management, automation, and the evolving needs of customers in the DTF market. The speakers emphasise the necessity for improved productivity and quality in printing, as well as the challenges posed by increased competition.
In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan and Davide Dragoni discuss the advancements in sustainable practices within the denim industry.
Particularly focusing on digital printing technologies that significantly reduce water usage and enhance supply chain efficiency. They explore the importance of certifications and traceability in ensuring eco-friendly production methods, highlighting the role of pigment printing in creating a more sustainable future for textiles.
In this conversation, Debbie McKeegan, CEO of Texintel, interviews Dinesh Wahi, the President at Shirt Hub.
They explore the evolution of the apparel decoration industry, particularly focusing on digital printing and the impact of technology and AI.
They discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by social media trends, the importance of community in the industry, and the future of work in light of AI advancements.
In this podcast episode, James Watson, Managing Director of Surface Print, discussed the evolution of his fourth-generation family business in Lancashire.
Surface Print combines traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation- investing £2 million in a hybrid rotary screen Gravure machine and £600,000 in new HP digital printers.
The company achieved ISO 14001 accreditation, introduced solar panels, and plans to install a new boiler and water recirculation system. Watson emphasised the importance of balancing traditional techniques with modern technologies to maintain quality and sustainability. The company also leverages AI for efficiency and marketing, while maintaining a family-oriented work culture.
Listen to learn more >>
From Dongles to Digital: Future‑Proof Licensing for Global Creative Teams
Host Debbie McKeegan talks with NedGraphics President Frank Maeder and 10Duke CEO Neil Fenton about the shift from hardware dongles to secure, user‑centric cloud licensing.
They discuss how this transition reduces friction for designers, supports hybrid and global workflows, strengthens security and resilience, and even contributes to sustainability by eliminating physical keys and their shipping footprint.
If you’re in fashion, design, CAD/CAM, or any creative production environment and want to future‑proof your software delivery, this discussion is packed with insight and real‑world examples.
Listen to learn more >>
In this insightful interview, Dave Conner, Director of Product Marketing at Stahls and Fulfill Engine, shares his journey into the textile industry.
The commercial opportunity presented by printed, personalised merchandise is already a lucrative revenue stream; it is the core driver of growth in a multi-billion-pound industry. And the mandate for print businesses is clear: automate, adapt, and offer undeniable added value, or choose to gradually lose market share.
This is not merely a shift in consumer demand; it is the fundamental evolution of the printed surface. By leveraging adaptive manufacturing, 3D added value, and sustainable surface effects, digital printers can secure their future by offering unique print applications across apparel, interior décor, accessories, and bespoke objects.
Discover how automation, materials, and community collaboration are shaping the future of on-demand garment decoration and fulfilment.
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In this podcast episode, Ulrich Scherbel, CEO of AMSilk, discusses the innovative production of bioengineered spider silk protein and its applications in the textile industry, going far beyond fibre and with the power to radically transform inks and chemistry.
He explains the challenges of scaling up production, the importance of sustainability, and how AMSilk's technology can significantly reduce carbon emissions. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in protein bioengineering and the future vision for transforming the textile supply chain through collaboration and innovation.
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In this insightful interview, Jon Bailey, COO of Precision Proco, shares his journey into the print industry, leadership philosophy, and how embracing change and innovation has shaped his success.
Discover practical lessons on building a resilient business, nurturing talent, and leveraging AI for future growth.
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In this conversation, Meike Nieuwenhuis shares her multifaceted approach to fashion design, emphasising the importance of collaboration, upcycling, and engaging with cultural heritage.
She discusses her experiences with digital printing and the Epson Innovation day at the NautaSign micro-factory, highlighting the need for sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
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In this episode, MeiLin Wan, founder of GenuTrace, discusses the critical importance of traceability in the textile industry, particularly in light of increasing regulations and consumer expectations. With nearly a billion pounds of materials tracked under her leadership, MeiLin emphasises the shift from marketing claims to scientifically substantiated proof of sustainability. She highlights the need for both physical and digital verification methods, such as DNA testing and isotope analysis, to ensure that products are ethically sourced and compliant with regulations like the UFLPA. The conversation also touches on the evolving relationships between manufacturers and retailers, the challenges of integrating new technologies, and the necessity of transparency throughout the supply chain.
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In this podcast, we explore the innovative world of sustainable inks with Punch Perrasin, founder of GrowInk and a 2025 graduate of Central St.Martins, London.
The conversation delves into the environmental challenges posed by traditional inks and how GrowInk’s research is redefining the printing industry with biodegradable inks derived from natural sources. Punch shares his journey from studying Material Fusion at Central Saint Martins to developing inks that not only provide colour but also contribute to environmental sustainability.
The discussion highlights the importance of collaboration between science and design, the challenges faced in research, and the potential for a shift in consumer perception towards temporary inks. Ultimately, the podcast emphasises the need for a more sustainable approach to printing and the role of the next generation in driving this change.
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In this podcast episode, Carry Somers discusses her book, 'The Nature of Fashion,' which explores the deep connections between fashion, nature, and sustainability. She emphasises the importance of understanding fashion's botanical past to envision a more sustainable future. The conversation delves into the impact of natural fibres, the exploitation within the fashion industry, and the lessons we can learn from history. Carry shares inspiring stories of individuals working to revive traditional textile practices and highlights the need for a balance between modern innovation and ancient wisdom. Ultimately, she calls for a shift in perspective, urging listeners to see the deeper connections behind the materials we use in fashion.
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In this podcast, Debbie McKeegan interviews Frank Maeder, president of NedGraphics and Optitex to discuss the latest 2026 software release and its significance in the textile design industry.
They explore the importance of software updates, the integration of AI in design tools, and the introduction of new features like AI-assisted tagging and colourway generation.
The conversation also delves into realism and simulation in textile design, highlighting the launch of the OPTINED Academy for training users on these advanced tools. Overall, the episode emphasises the need for continuous adaptation and learning in a rapidly evolving industry.
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The invention, a dark adsorbent material that can be added to wastewater and separated with a magnet, builds on the team’s 2022 breakthrough in microplastics removal, extending performance to much smaller particles and more complex wastewater.
Microplastics are an increasing global concern, with growing evidence of their presence in water systems.
The researchers say the ability to remove micro‑ and nano‑plastics under practical conditions sets this work apart.
Winterthur – Switzerland - July, 2026 – Recycling Powerhouse Ltd. was established in July 2026 to industrialize, standardize and scale textile recycling.
Based in Switzerland, the venture will operate a franchise-driven business model that enables the production of high-quality, certified recycled yarns.
The project is supported by the following partners: Rieter Group, the world’s leading system supplier for natural and man-made fibers, Säntis Textiles, a Swiss textile engineering company, and Valvan, a Belgian sorting technology company.
Singapore, July 2026 – DyStar, a leading specialty chemicals company with more than a century of expertise in product development and innovation, today announced the release of its FY2025 Sustainability Report, marking a significant milestone in its sustainability journey and reinforcing its commitment to long-term value creation
Germany, France and the Netherlands are advocating coordinated European action against ultra-fast fashion.
The three Member States raised the topic at today’s EU Environment Council in Luxembourg, and called on the European Commission to make existing and planned EU provisions more effective against short-lived, low quality textiles.
Their call was supported by other Member States, including Slovenia and Denmark.
LONDON, June 11: Textile Exchange has published its new polyester Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) study, providing robust, accurate, and credible data to strengthen the fashion, textile, and apparel industry’s understanding of the impacts of different types of polyester production.
The study is the second in a series of LCA studies led by Textile Exchange and addresses key gaps and limitations in the LCA data currently available for polyester.
Widnes, Cheshire - 5 June 2026 – On World Environment Day, Roberts Group International has announced a pioneering partnership with St Helens Council, Seamster & Shepherd, and Hope Academy.
The initiative, titled Hope for the Earth: From Reclaimed Textiles to Sustainable Student Fashion Show, empowers students to transform reclaimed textiles into original fashion pieces ahead of a summer showcase event in July.
The collaborative project addresses the urgent need for circularity in the fashion industry by bringing the sustainability message directly into the classroom.
Shenzhen, June 2026 – To address the urgent need for sustainable practices and digital transformation within the global fashion industry, the Intertextile Shenzhen Apparel Fabrics and Yarn Expo Shenzhen will return from 9 to 11 June 2026.
Held at the Shenzhen Convention and Exhibition Center, the event will host over 600 international exhibitors across 45,000 square metres.
The innovative washing process SMART WASH represents a modern, high-performance, and environmentally conscious approach to textile care.
The targeted combination of the products BEIPLEX GREEN, BEICLEAN ECO, BEIPUR ANP, BEIBLEACH WP 35, and BEIACID CIT creates a holistic, sustainable washing and bleaching concept.
London, UK – June 2026 – ARTS THREAD is delighted to announce that Alina Gamboa, VP Head of Design at Polo & RLX Men's (Ralph Lauren), has joined the judging panel for the Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2026, presented in collaboration with Google Arts & Culture.
Gamboa will lend her expertise to the Fashion, Accessories and Textiles categories.
The 2026 judging panel comprises esteemed leaders spanning diverse sectors, including digital visual communications, film, fashion, accessories, textiles, product design, architecture, interiors, fine art, photography, contemporary craft, and jewellery.
Over the forthcoming weeks, ARTS THREAD will individually unveil the judges from A to Z across its official social media platforms. This phased announcement highlights the calibre of expertise awaiting this year's cohort of creators.
London May 2026 – ARTS THREAD has officially opened applications for The Only Natural Student Design Competition 2026, an urgent call to action for visionary designers ready to disrupt the fashion, furniture, and furnishings industries.
Aimed at students and recent graduates from the cohorts of 2024 and 2025, the global competition challenges emerging talent to abandon synthetic, oil-derived materials in favour of renewable and durable natural fibres.
Submissions are open immediately and will be accepted until the 30th of June 2026.
FALMOUTH, UK – April 2026– Falmouth University BA (Hons) Textile Design graduate and technician Meredith Wood has been named a Top 20 finalist in the prestigious H&M Foundation’s Global Change Award.
Through her pioneering company, Colour Earth, Wood and her co-founders are addressing urgent environmental issues by developing scalable, lower-impact plant-based pigments to replace highly polluting petrochemical synthetic dyes.
London April 2026 – ARTS THREAD has officially announced the opening of the seventh edition of the Global Creative Graduate Showcase.
This proactive initiative provides a crucial platform for art and design students graduating between September 2025 and August 2026.
By inviting graduates from anywhere in the world, including Southern Hemisphere students graduating after September 2025, the organisation continues to address the urgent need to elevate emerging talent in a rapidly evolving global market.
London – March - 2026 – Arts Thread has announced its continued partnership with TEX+ for 2026, reaffirming its commitment to supporting emerging textile graduates as they transition from education into professional careers.
TEX+ is a career accelerator designed to bridge the gap between the next generation of textile designers and industry professionals.
NEW YORK – January 2026– The Brooklyn Museum is proud to announce the North American debut of Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses, a major exhibition running from 16 May to 6 December 2026.
This global presentation celebrates one of the most forward-thinking fashion designers of this generation, exploring the convergence of traditional couture artisanship with innovative technologies.
Organised by the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, this extensive exhibition reveals the experimental spirit that has reshaped 21st-century fashion
London January 2026 – Arts Thread has announced it is partnering with Real Leather. Stay Different. for the sixth consecutive year to launch the International Student Design Competition 2026.
This global initiative seeks to identify the best new designers from around the world who are dedicated to promoting slow style and a more sustainable future for the fashion industry.
The competition aims to address the urgent environmental crisis created by the fast fashion business model.
London, UK – June 2026 – ARTS THREAD is delighted to announce that Alina Gamboa, VP Head of Design at Polo & RLX Men's (Ralph Lauren), has joined the judging panel for the Global Creative Graduate Showcase 2026, presented in collaboration with Google Arts & Culture.
Gamboa will lend her expertise to the Fashion, Accessories and Textiles categories.