Showtime Magazine | Fall & Winter 2021 by Stallard Studio

2 021 FA L L & W I N T E R I S S U E \ O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F I TA S H O W T I M E ® M A R K E T

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MAY 22-25

2022 Faux Leather IN DEMAND

Future Fabric LEADERS

TE X TIL ES LE ATH ERS TRIMMINGS

SHOWTIME® WELCOME

from the ITA President The connecting thread that weaves through our industry is in the language we speak and the ties that bind us. Think of how often we use textile phrases to speak about everything we do in our daily lives and realize how intrinsically important our industry is: we ‘weave in and out of traffic;’ we have ‘threads of conversation’ and ‘threads’ in social media; we ‘shuttle’ our kids back and forth to activities. We are communicating our lives through textile “speak.”

The ITA is a non-profit business association founded in 1990 to advance the textile industries through the promotion of its members and facilitation of education, networking and collaboration year-round.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PRESIDENT Kathryn Richardson, Libeco VICE PRESIDENT David Lappert, Kravet TREASURER Mendy Kearns, Hamilton Fabric Sales, Inc. Nathan Copeland, Highland House Elise Gabrielson, Crypton Carmen Herndon Barbee, Ballard Designs Andy Pacuk, Ultrafabrics Patrick Shelton, Valdese Weavers

STAFF

MANAGING DIRECTOR Carrie Dillon 336-885-6842, carrie@internationaltextilealliance.org 305 West High Avenue, High Point, NC 27260 InternationalTextileAlliance.org

KATHRYN RICHARDSON

Textiles are critically important in our lives as a result—from the designs on toilet paper to the materials that cocoon us in bed, to the fabrics and leathers on our sofas, desk chairs, in our cars, and what we wear. Textiles are how we express ourselves, communicate our values, and connect with others. We at the ITA recognize the meaning textiles have in our lives and renew our commitment to how we communicate and connect our industry. We recommit to our mantra “Connections Happen Here” and invite you to join us. Our committees, initiatives, Educational Foundation, events, and our volunteer Board of Directors are all opportunities for you to join us and help make our industry stronger, more interwoven. Our combined efforts allow us to reach more and more interested buyers, potential employees, end consumers and educators. The ITA has been focused on new ways of speaking to our industry. We will be announcing major changes and initiatives in the spring of 2022 in how we are communicating and connecting the stakeholders in the textile, leather and trimmings worlds. We have already started with new programs like our Member Showcase each quarter, our more robust educational programming, our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Initiative through the Educational Foundation, and a renewed investment in our fiscal strategy, media outreach, operational systems, an overhauled website and marketing opportunities to come. Our organization and industry have gone through immense turmoil, and will still see challenges in the years to come. But we are inspired by the booming interest in the home furnishings market, and in the passion for home textile, leather and trimmings design, stories and new technology. Please come see me at Showtime market in the Libeco showroom, MST 382, and let me know how we can serve our industry, and your company, better. Let’s connect. Connections Happen Here.

Kathryn Richardson ITA president

The largest tradeshow in the U.S. dedicated to textiles, leathers and trimmings, Showtime Market brings together the industry’s leading manufacturers, suppliers, wholesalers, and retailers. Produced bi-annually by and for the members of ITA, Showtime is the “can’t-miss” market for textile professionals. Registration and market information: InternationalTextileAlliance.org/Showtime Showtime magazine is a publication of the International Textile Alliance and is managed by Stallard Studio DBA Showtime Media & Marketing. PUBLISHER Crystal Staley 336.514.2026, crystal@showtime-magazine.com EDITOR Jennifer Bringle 919.649.5368, editor@showtime-magazine.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER Kim Shaver kim.shaver@aol.com DESIGNER Mara Wedekind 443.695.2865, art@showtime-magazine.com SALES DIRECTOR Emily Thiel 336.689.0802, sales@showtime-magazine.com COVER PHOTOGRAPHY Los Muertos Crew, PEXELS Tell us what you would like to see in future issues of Showtime magazine. Send story ideas and style influencer suggestions via email for consideration. Reproduction or use, without permission, of editorial or graphic content in any manner is prohibited.

A key focus of ITA, its Educational Foundation is dedicated to ensuring the future of the textile industries through the nurturing and promotion of education, scholarship, and career development initiatives.

EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION CHAIR Kathryn Richardson, Libeco

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Jack Eger, Crypton John Kearns, Hamilton Fabric Sales Katherine Shoaf, Radiate Textiles Katie Smarr, Crypton Katie Williams, De Leo Textiles Terrell Gary, P. Kaufmann Wesley Mancini, Wesley Mancini, Ltd.

MAY 22 -25 , 2022 ND

Photo Courtesy of Wesley Hall

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEATURES 18

FAUX LEATHER IN DEMAND

Cleanability drives performance leather sales in the wake of COVID.

14 APPRECIATION VS. APPROPRIATION

How textile designers can avoid confusing inspiration with cultural appropriation.

FUTURE FABRIC LEADERS

Get to know members of the next generation of textile families.

ADVERTISERS 4............. ITA Member Stories 10............ Style Influencer – Breegan Jane 12............ Style Influencer – Cheryl Luckett 28........... ITA Educational Foundation 32........... ITA Member News 39........... ITA Member Products 44.......... ITA 2020-2021 Members

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/Showtime

Bartson Fabrics, Inc. Crypton Home Fabric De Leo Textiles Global Textile Alliance Greentex America Home Furnishings Hall of Fame IHFRA International Market Centers Neon Textiles Optima Leathers Regal Fabrics, Inc. Richloom Sattler Outdura Tencel Ultrasuede Valdese Weavers WithIt

SHOWTIME NOVEMBER 14-17

Please join us at the Beer Garden Sunday-Tuesday 4-6 pm for Drinks and Belgian Waffle Bar.

MARKET SQUARE 246

www.termolst.com

www.symphonymills.com

Contact your sales rep for an appointment: Jessica Norby (Symphony Mills) - jnorby@gtatextiles.com Chuck Marchant (Ter Molst) - chuckmarchant@gtatextiles.com

FOLLOW TER MOLST AND SYMPHONY MILLS ON

AND

ITA MEMBER STORY

Ultrasuede Adds a New Chapter to Its Sustainability Story Developed during the 1970s and made famous by fashion designer Halston and furniture designer Vladimir Kagan, Toray Industries’ Ultrasuede has a long history of providing the softness and sophistication of suede with durable performance. And now, the company adds a new facet to that legacy— sustainability. It all began in 2015, when Toray began commercial production of plant-based polyester, which uses recycled resources derived from plants as part of its raw materials. The biomaterials used to create this fabric help contribute to a nonoil-dependent economy, offer a secure supply and stable quality, and allow Toray to help build a healthier environment. And the company plans to expand the use of those biomaterials going forward, creating an even larger positive impact on the environment. “Currently, Ultrasuede HP is made up of approximately 14 percent plant-based components,” says Helen Brier, sales and marketing manager, Ultrasuede. “Further development of the material construction utilizing 30 percent plant-based components is now complete and will launch next year. In the near future, we are targeting 100 percent plant-based components.”

This season, look for: Ultrasuede introduces its mélange collection, also known as heathered fabric. Mélange is traditionally made of dyed and un-dyed fibers woven together inconsistently, resulting in a unique, eyecatching pattern, popular in both fashion and interiors. To create the luxe look of mélange for Ultrasuede HP, a special screen printing process is employed, with the screens allowing for a consistent pattern from lot to lot.

SHOWROOM: Not Exhibiting at November 2021 Show CONTACT: 212.922.3774 www.ultrasuede.us

Also new this season is twill, a geometric pattern most often seen in cotton or wool fabrications. Ultrasuede HP’s small-scale twill pattern is created with a dye print using rotary screens. Available in five colorways, the pattern is evocative of a classic “zig zag” textile weave used in the production of denim garments, suiting or the iconic wool overcoats produced in Scotland.

MÉLANGE

TWILL

new patterns of luxury and performance Ultrasuede® is now available in two classic patterns

V IS IT U LT RA S U E D E .U S TO L E A R N MO R E Manufacturer inquiries to furniture@ultrasuede.com

ITA MEMBER STORY

Bartson Fabrics’ Recycled Line Benefits Business and the Planet Nearly two years ago, Kyle Klawetter, vice president of sales at Bartson Fabrics, made a startling discovery. After doing some research, he learned that millions of tons of plastic go into the world’s oceans every year. Disturbed by that fact, the team at Bartson decided to do something to help change that, and the company’s recycled fabric line was born. In the time since, Bartson has made a huge push into sustainable fabrics with its 100 percent recycled polyester collection. The line grows this year with new patterns and colors, as well as several multipurpose drapery weight patterns that are 100 percent recycled. The company will have yarn-dyed multicolor recycled patterns, as well. And those recycled fabrics offer the same look and feel as those made with virgin polyester, and lack the issues of semi-recycled weaves, such as dye streaking. “You can’t tell the difference between virgin polyester and recycled polyester,” Klawetter says. “It’s just as soft, just as plush—there’s no real difference.” Klawetter says the recycled line has been well-received, with national retailers, jobbers and multiple furniture manufacturers picking up the line. He says the company is excited to expand the collection, and he hopes their success inspires others to do their part to help preserve the planet. “If people care about the impact of your products on the planet, I think it’s imperative that we all start to do things that can turn the tide a little bit,” he says.

This season, look for: SHOWROOM: 410 W. English Rd, Ste A221, High Point CONTACT: 201.652.1150 www.bartsonfabrics.com

Bartson will debut an array of new fabrics this market, including solids, textures and prints, as well as new patterns in its 100 percent recycled line. And visitors to the showroom also can meet Jimmy, the goldendoodle.

ITA MEMBER STORY

Sustainability and Supply Availability Propel Valdese Weavers Forward With a century-plus history as the largest jacquard textile manufacturer in the United States, Valdese Weavers could easily rest on its laurels. But instead, the company continues to innovate and offer solutions for problems that range from sustainability to supply disruption. While the company has used recycled polyester for decades, Valdese Weavers recently upped its sustainability game with its collaboration with the Seaqual Initiative, which allows the mill to create textiles from upcycled marine waste. And their InsideOut and Sustain performance fabric lines were both recently GreenGuard Gold Certified as free from harmful emissions. And while sustainability has become a huge issue in the textile industry, so has supply availability in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Valdese Weavers’ vertical manufacturing model has allowed them to maintain greater control over their production, a critical asset as supply chains have been impacted by the pandemic. That production model has allowed Valdese Weavers to remain nimble, responding quickly not only to design trends, but also to growing customer demand during a time when disrupted supply chains have slowed the flow of product for many. “I’m incredibly proud of how our company has continued to provide a high level of service and continued to be a trusted domestic source for our customers despite the challenges our industry faced in the past year,” says Blake Millinor, president and CEO, Valdese Weavers. “Our extensive product offering gives us the opportunity to work with a lot of great partners in different markets, and we are looking forward to more innovation and growth in 2022.”

This season, look for: SHOWROOM: 311 North Hamilton Street, Third Floor, High Point CONTACT: 828.874.2181 www.valdeseweavers.com

Valdese Weavers’ new yarn, Linenia, is expanding in color and styling this season. Linenia offers a domestic source for textiles that have the look of linen without the inconsistent qualities, scratchy hand and high maintenance of natural linen. Valdese also will launch a new Crypton Home collection this market. Top photo: The Linenia collection has all the qualities you love about linen, but without the irregularity and maintenance of natural linen! Bottom photo: The Seaqual Initiative partnered with Valdese Weavers to create sustainable and beautiful fabrics woven with upcycled marine plastic.

Performance Redefined InsideOutPerformanceFabrics.com

STYLE INFLUENCER

BREEGAN JANE Designer, HGTV star, and founder and CEO of Breegan Jane LLC breeganjane.com | Instagram: @breeganjane

Before Breegan Jane became a familiar face on HGTV shows like “Property Brothers,” “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and “Fix My Fail,” she was a Los Angeles-based interior designer and lifestyle expert. While Jane still designs stylish California spaces and shares her insights as a working mom via her blog, she’s now become a design star, sharing her stylish, youthful aesthetic in magazines, on television and as a featured speaker at design-focused events. Jane also advocates for women and children in Africa as a partner with international nonprofit World Vision, particularly their work with the Kenya Big Dream initiative, which helps end child marriages and acts of violence against women and children. Most recently, Jane has helped engaged couples realize their dream of a wedding and buying their first home with her new HGTV series, “The House My Wedding Bought,” airing now on Discovery+. Accomplishment You are Most Proud of: I’m just proud that opportunities are coming to me. They signal that I’m on my destined path. These opportunities also let me know there’s something noticeable about my reputation and drive. If my work ethic resonates with people enough that they want me to do what I love for them, then I must be doing something right. THAT, I’m proud of. Colors or Color Combinations: My absolute favorite color combination is teal and gold, but I also love using white and neutrals as a base for a pop of bold color in an interior space. I also love the look of mixed metals; done well, it can create a very modern and elegant presentation. What Color Would You Be? Again, I’d be teal, and my name would simply be “Water.” I remember a quote by Lao Zi that says, “Water is the softest thing, yet it can penetrate mountains and earth.” I would be the color that’s unassuming but powerful when used in the context of the art. Go-to Paint Colors: Cool December by Dunn-Edwards and Behr’s Little Black Dress 10

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Sources of Inspiration: As a born-and-raised Southern Cali girl, I’ll always be inspired by the beach and ocean. It’s why teal is a significant part of my company’s visual branding, and I always look to incorporate teal into my design when I can. Favorite Quote: “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” This is such an inspirational quote for me. It always reminds me to aim higher and farther. Dream Project? I’d love to design a hotel. I’m so intrigued by the expansive space frequently visited by travelers from all over the world that I would get to create. Fave/Least Fave Trend: I don’t like using the word “trend,” but I’m inspired by so many popular sources. One thing I’m seeing a lot recently is the use of adhesive wallpaper for rental units. The convenience and ease of use and replacement is perfect for a space that may see frequent transitions. I’m not a fan of using faux fur pillows in interior decor. It’s not a great look to me. Also, I prefer not to use heavy wooden bed frames. I refer to them as “shin killers” because they hurt your legs terribly if you happen to knock into them. I see them used in hotels a great deal, and I loathe them.

MARKET SQUARE TEXTILE TOWER

The Market Square Textile Tower features textile, leather and trimmings manufacturers on 10 floors within this landmark building in downtown High Point. Since its launch in July 1990, the Showtime® Market has called Market Square its home. Discover fresh, new resources and design among exhibiting companies within Market Square Tower.

#DesignOnHPMkt IMCHighPointMarket.com

STYLE INFLUENCER

CHERYL LUCKETT Interior designer and owner of Dwell by Cheryl dwellbycheryl.com | Instagram: @dwellbycheryl

Though her career began on a different path, Cheryl Luckett always had a love for design. As a student at Tennessee State University—where she studied family and consumer science—Luckett first began to follow her passion for design, with her expertly styled dorm room often used as a model for prospective student tours. After graduating, Luckett enrolled at Prairie View A&M for post-graduate work and went on to become a registered dietitian—a credential she maintains today. For more than 15 years, Luckett worked as a dietitian for a Fortune 500 company in Charlotte, but the call to design remained strong. So she enrolled in a local community college and earned a residential interior design diploma in 2017. After that, she took the leap and launched her own interior design company, Dwell by Cheryl. In the years since, Luckett has built a successful career designing spaces in Charlotte and across the Southeast. Her work has been published in Traditional Home, Country Living, HGTV Magazine and Southern Living, among other outlets. Luckett is a nine-time recipient of the Best of Houzz Award for Design and Customer Satisfaction, one of the Black Interior Designers Network’s African American Top 20 Designers and in 2019 was named one of Charlotte’s Best Interior Designers by Charlotte Agenda. In 2018, Luckett launched a five-piece upholstered furniture collection—Belle by Cheryl Luckett—for Sylvester Alexander Fine Upholstery, and she also serves as design ambassador for Revolution Performance Fabric. Accomplishment You are Most Proud of: Launching my first digital course for homeowners. Colors or Color Combinations: I don’t design with them together often, but I’m definitely a pink and green kinda girl. Go-to Paint Colors: Sherwin Williams Shitake and Marshmallow 12

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/Showtime

What Color Would You Be? Mulberry bush. I love a rich, deep pinky purple—it has depth and range. It can be playful and sophisticated at the same time. Sources of Inspiration: I often derive inspiration from textiles. My piano room was designed based on an African mud cloth I found balled up on a table at an antique mall. Favorite Quote: “Never forget who you are, where you come from, and who sent you.” —Dad Dream Project? I would love a project abroad. We have many clients who have landed in Charlotte but are originally from places outside of the U.S. It would be awesome to take on a second home for one of them. Fave/Least Fave Trend: I like the return to warmth (browns, wood tones, earthy colors), and I wish accent walls with decorative molding would go away. Favorite Charity: Furnish for Good, a Charlotte-based non-profit that helps those in need by donating well-loved home furnishings through a unique, empowering experience.

Come visit us during ITA Showtime! 9th Floor at Market Square Tower

Platinum Collection

Upholstery Collection richloom.com

SHOWTIME® FEATURE

INAPPROPRIATE

INSPIRATION

WHY CULTURAL APPROPRIATION IS PROBLEMATIC By Jennifer Bringle It seemed harmless enough. A pair of cutoff shorts, embroidered with a colorful starburst pattern. A dress, adorned with a zig-zagging geometric motif. A blouse, festooned with vibrant embroidered flowers. Yet these pieces—Anthropologie shorts, a Zara dress and a Patowl blouse—all drew the ire of Mexico’s Ministry of Culture, which sent a notice to the companies earlier this year accusing the fashion

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brands of cultural appropriation of native motifs and techniques. In recent years, we’ve heard a lot about cultural appropriation in the fashion industry, and it’s an issue that can arise in any realm of textile design, including fabrics for the home. But what exactly does cultural appropriation mean? And why is it problematic?

INAPPROPRIATE INSPIRATION

ROOTED IN RACIAL INEQUITY Stated simply, cultural appropriation is the unacknowledged or inappropriate use of the customs, traditions or images of a culture by members of another—usually more powerful—culture. “When we think about cultural appropriation, we’re thinking about a more dominant society taking from a less dominant society,” says Marcia L. Weiss, director of Fashion and Textiles Futures Center and associate professor of textile design, Jefferson (Philadelphia University + Thomas Jefferson University). “Without taking the time to understand what you’re looking at, it becomes a purely visual exercise. And when we’re talking about things that might be sacred or have centuries of cultural significance, that’s a problem.”

This Zara dress drew the ire of Mexico’s Minister of Culture.

And appropriation has a long history throughout the world, often tied to the confiscation of land and other property from native people by white settlers, be it from Native Americans in the U.S., African tribes or ancient civilizations like the Maya in Mexico. “There’s a history of that appropriation that goes back to colonization, where people just take,” says Annicia Durka, director of woven product, P/Kauffman. “When we’re looking at white-centered culture, it’s white people who have colonized and taken from indigenous people in Africa and other countries—it’s really tied back to that.”

Because of this history, a white designer using a native Mexican embroidery pattern without attribution, or incorporating an African mud cloth motif without acknowledging its origin, is seen as appropriating the tradition of another culture for their own gain.

Similarly, sacred objects and motifs, like traditional Native American feathered headdresses, the Hindu god Ganesh, or the Star of David, also should not be used simply as patterns or decoration by people who do not practice those faith traditions. The use of another culture’s sacred imagery in this way would be akin to wearing an unearned Purple Heart as a simple accessory.

These Anthropologie shorts also were flagged for appropriating traditional patterns.

And this Patowl blouse incorporated traditional Mexican motifs and techniques.

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

SHOWTIME® FEATURE

APPROPRIATION VS. INSPIRATION Textile designers often find inspiration in global trends and through their travels to other countries and cultures. But is it OK to source inspiration this way? Yes, with certain considerations. One of the key differences between inspiration and appropriation is properly crediting the culture or artist whose work or traditions have inspired you. “There’s a way to give credit just like you would a licensee,” Durka says. “If you enjoy someone’s artwork, you wouldn’t just copy it—you would give that person a royalty, you would give a credit.”

If that’s not possible, a designer can still draw inspiration from another culture without appropriating. Instead of keeping a reference image or item nearby or on a mood board, put it away and allow your own creativity to flow rather than being overtly guided by your inspiration. “The big difference is using reference material that inspires you and creating something original with it,” says textile designer Saana Baker. “Letting it filter through your personal point of view and your lens is super important.” Also important? Attribution. “Citing your resources and doing your research is also paramount,” Baker says.

CHANGING PERCEPTIONS The key to eradicating cultural appropriation in textile design is being willing to do the work—research, think critically, and be willing to change processes to avoid inadvertent appropriation. “We’re at a point in society where we’re being asked to think a little harder,” Baker says. “Do we want this legacy? This is basically a legacy of subjugation— I can own this because I won the war or I opened the tomb and took something.” It’s also important to look at peers in the industry, and recognize that there are people representing many cultural backgrounds who can provide a more accurate, authentic take on a design than a person not of that heritage.

Or better yet, if the artist or craftsman is living and accessible, reach out to them for a collaboration, or work with designers representing other cultures who can give an authentic interpretation. “There’s a way to create original artwork or a certain hand or a feeling that’s very different than simply copying something,” Durka says. “If there’s a certain look you’re looking for, seek out a designer or studio that’s authentic in that or a dealer that deals in that.”

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“There’s this perception that there are not a lot of people of color in the design field and the home market, but actually there are a ton of us,” Durka says. “And up until now, it wasn’t really beneficial to call that out—it’s just now that people are seeing that as a benefit, and we’re able to show our full selves and people see that as an asset.”

INAPPROPRIATE INSPIRATION

And ultimately, the best way to avoid cultural appropriation is to not see it as simply an issue that affects others, but rather as a reflection of our industry as a whole, and one that could apply to any member of the textile production community. “If as designers we can put ourselves in someone else’s shoes, picture it from our perspective of what things are unique and important from our own personal background and heritage, things that we would find challenging if someone took them and used them in a different way,” Weiss says. “If we look at them through those eyes, we can understand how it might feel when something is inappropriately appropriated.”

newyork@lenzing.com

SHOWTIME® FEATURE

PANDEMIC PERFORMANCE HOW COVID HAS DRIVEN DEMAND FOR FAUX LEATHER By Jennifer Bringle When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, it inspired many to begin looking at their homes differently. Stuck inside during lockdowns and quarantine, people felt compelled to make changes and upgrades, feathering their nests for months spent indoors. But the home’s look and feel wasn’t the only thing that suddenly became more important. With a viral illness sickening millions around the globe, the ability to clean and disinfect spaces has become critical not only in homes, but in public spaces like hotels, restaurants and airplanes, as well. And while some upholstery will stand up to the rigors of disinfecting, many home textiles simply aren’t designed for that level of cleaning. That’s doubly true for most leathers, which would be destroyed by the cleaning agents necessary to kill the coronavirus. Because of that, the demand for faux or performance leathers has increased significantly since the onset of the pandemic. Producers of these products are seeing an uptick in business not only from residential customers, but in hospitality and contract applications, as well. “Many markets that we sell into are seeing growing demand for a product like ours,” says A.R. Swan, director of marketing, Ultrafabrics. “Cleanability is a huge driver of that need, as well as consumers looking for leather alternatives. Not only do people want to be safe, they are looking more than ever to materials that are also safe for the world we live in.” Valdese Weavers’ Endurance product comes in more than 20 durable colors.

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/Showtime

Ultrasuede has seen increased demand for both residential and contract applications.

Valdese Weavers, which launched its Endurance performance leather product a couple of years ago as part of its InsideOut line, has also seen an increase in interest since the onset of the pandemic. “We’ve seen that in our fabrics overall—the attraction to InsideOut because you can clean them with bleach and disinfectant without it spotting or fading,” says Christy Almond, vice president of product development and marketing, Valdese Weavers. “Both residential and contract clients are interested in that attribute now.” Another market driving this demand? Transportation.

PANDEMIC PERFORMANCE

Toray has seen a bump in inquiries from airlines, in particular, which have struggled to return to regular service while maintaining COVID safety protocols. “Ultrasuede is sold into many industries, and one of them is the aircraft industry, and they’re going crazy trying to Made with ultrafine fibers, Ultrasuede is durable keep fabrics enough to stand up to the rigors of pets. clean,” says Helen Brier, manager, Ultrasuede. “You can basically use anything that doesn’t have bleach on it—you can use alcohol, hydrogen peroxide or soap and water.” Conversely, water and ground vehicles have been good business for Ultrasuede since the pandemic began, as well.

“It’s soft and it has a slight look of a grain to it, but it’s not highly textured,” Almond says. “One of the things people have liked about it are the colors we offer—it has a pretty sophisticated palette. They like having something that has that look and easy care.” Comfort is a key to capitalizing on the pandemicinduced demand for faux leather products, as well. That has been a driver of business for Ultrasuede, which incorporates ultrafine fibers to create the suede-like feel of its product. “Due to its unique Soft grays have been some of non-woven construction, the most popular colors for the fabric is breathable Valdese Weavers’ Endurance. and helps regulate body temperature similar to genuine leather,” Brier says. “And like genuine leather, it’s often used in high-traffic areas.”

“With boats and RVs, there’s an increase because some people don’t want to fly,” Brier says. “That sector of our business is doing very well.” But while cleanability is a major concern right now, that doesn’t mean style goes out the door. When using these products as an alternative to leather, customers want the same variety of colors, textures and styles available in natural hides.

For Valdese Weavers’ Endurance, the availability of colors—more than 20—has been a big selling point along with its performance aspects.

While there may come a time that the fear of COVID wanes, the heightened attention to sanitation and safety is likely to linger for years to come. And that shift will continue to drive demand for fabrics that offer style while standing up to the rigors of regular disinfection.

While they already offer 97 solid colors, Ultrasuede adds patterns this season, as well.

“The way we interact, work and live has been changed dramatically, post-COVID,” Swan says. “Proper disinfecting and regular cleaning is now a must in the world we live.”

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

C RY P TO N S H O W R O O M 4 t h F LO O R

@cryptonfabric

SHOWTIME® FEATURE

GENERATION THESE TEXTILE INDUSTRY LEADERS CARRY THE FAMILY TORCH WHILE FORGING A BOLD FUTURE By Kim D. Shaver

Representing the second, third and even fourth generations of leadership in their families’ businesses, the next era of textile industry leaders is a reservoir of talent, energy and vision. A bridge from the past to the future, they’re inspired by the legacy and wisdom of their elders, while embracing multigenerational collaboration that will advance their companies and the home textiles industry into the future.

SCOTT KAHAN New business development, Regal Fabrics | Age 35

Tell us about your company and role. My grandparents, Herb and Arlene Kahan founded Boston-based Regal Fabrics in 1987, and I joined three years ago. While I do a little bit of everything, including operations, customer relations and marketing, my position is business development. What new innovations and initiatives have you been involved in at your company? The most exciting initiative I’ve been involved in was the due diligence, purchase and integration of a portion of the Diversitex business. The acquisition enabled us to expand into an exciting new collection of casual lifestyle fabrics called Kindred, in natural fibers like cotton, linens, hemp and recycled yarns with a focus on sustainability. What recent achievements or improvements are you most proud of? In an effort to offer faster service turnaround and more custom collaboration, we have begun doing short-order custom digital printing production in Boston on 24 different base cloths we carry. In the past, we did all our digital printing offshore and it took at least 10 days to get a strike-off for approval. Now that we are doing it domestically, we can turn it around in 24 to 48 hours.

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NEXT GENERATION

ANDY KAHAN Market manager, Regal Fabrics | Age 31

Tell us about your company and role. Regal Fabrics was founded by my grandparents in 1987, and our family— including my grandfather, father, aunt and brother—has a hand in just about all aspects of Regal. My role involves wearing many hats, but I am primarily focused on customer relations, marketing and strategy. What new innovations and initiatives have you been involved in at your company? Along with launching our stand-alone Kindred brand focused on sustainable and natural fabrics, we’ve recently focused on refreshing our branding and online presence, which includes a totally revamped more user-friendly website, weekly blog posts, a monthly newsletter, updated packaging, a new mission statement and more. It was exciting to be a part of all of this and see the immediate feedback from customers benefitting from the updates, as they interact with our brand in new ways. What recent achievements or improvements are you most proud of? We have benefited immensely from the additional space and capabilities we’ve added with our new headquarters, which we moved into right before the pandemic hit. The extra inventory capacity has allowed us to win on quick turnaround projects for customers in dire need of product. It has given a huge boost to the efficiency of our shipping and receiving efforts. In addition, we built out a showroom similar to our High Point meeting spaces, originally meant for customer visits, but in the pandemic became a great stage for our virtual showings – allowing us to keep in contact with customers directly and keep introducing new product while keeping our distance. What’s your favorite part of your job? My favorite part of the job is being able to tell our story—to discuss with our customers and partners not only our product, but our process, our philosophy, and our progression from importing tapestries as a three-person startup to moving into our 94,000-square-foot headquarters.

DREW PATTON National sales, P/Kaufmann/Golding Fabrics | Age 36

Tell us about your company and role. P/Kaufmann is a family-owned company, founded in 1957 by Peter Kaufmann in New York City. I handle furniture sales for the Golding Fabrics and PK Lifestyles divisions. My father, Bob Patton, has been with P/Kaufmann Inc. for over 28 years as sales manager for furniture. I began my career working with Ningbo Fubang Furniture in Beilun, China, where I lived in the dorm at the factory. This was an invaluable experience, learning the manufacturing and design process for furniture and picking up the Mandarin language. What new innovations and initiatives have you been involved in at your company? It’s been gratifying to help reposition Golding in the marketplace as a viable upholstery resource, focused on improved designs, with the capability of meeting project-specific demands on a global scale. We have been fortunate to experience growth with retail partners during the current business climate, and our team’s ability to work together in meeting customers’ specific needs, despite challenges, is what we’re proud of the most. What is your favorite thing about your job? We always hear people refer to the past, and to wanting to spend more time with family. I’m fortunate that I get to work with both of my parents, as well as extended family throughout the industry.

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

SHOWTIME® FEATURE

ALLEN GANT III Director of retail, Sunbrella | Age 37

Tell us about your company and role. Sunbrella is a well-known and trusted brand of Glen Raven, a family-owned textile mill that was founded more than 140 years ago by my great-grandfather, John Q. Gant. In my position as the director of retail at Sunbrella, I am responsible for forging and supporting retailer partnerships. What new innovations and initiatives have you been involved in at your company? It’s been rewarding to identify and build a dedicated retail team, allowing Sunbrella to bring value and consistency to partners throughout the full supply chain from manufacturing to retailers. I am also excited about the industry’s future in digital and ecommerce, and our work with partners to meet consumers where and how they want to shop. We’ve made strides, and our digital skill set is a strong point, driving consistency in messaging and raising awareness across the board. What recent improvements, solutions or achievements are you most proud of being part of? One highlight is the opening of our new headquarters in Burlington. Our business was growing, we needed more space, and it became clear we needed to invest further in our operations to continue to meet the needs of our customers. Rather than build new, we recaptured and completely refreshed our historic mill space that was actually my great grandfather’s first building over 120 years ago. This project was special to our family and business, because we were able to create a completely modern and progressive space that surrounds our associates in the Sunbrella brand and also maintains our heritage and respects our past.

ANDERSON GIBBONS CMO, Revolution Performance Fabrics | Age 28

Tell us about your company and role. Family-owned and operated since 1964, Kings Mountain, N.C.-based STI, the precursor of Revolution Performance Fabrics, was founded by my grandfather, and is primarily owned by my mother, Lisa Gibbons, and her two sisters, while my father, Sean Gibbons, serves as CEO. I joined the company seven years ago after working at both a tannery and a textile company and studying at the Jake Jabs School of Business & Entrepreneurship at Montana State University. What new innovations and initiatives have you been involved in at your company? When I joined Revolution, it was known as STI and was an unbranded OEM company that sold textiles to furniture manufacturers who serviced mass market retail chains. The strategy I’m most excited about is helping to create the Revolution brand. It’s a brand that’s synonymous with stain resistance and ‘Made in the U.S.A.’ We also helped bring the once high-end performance fabric category to where the average American could afford them. What recent achievements or improvements are you most proud of? The very first thing I did, before I ever ‘officially’ joined the company, was develop and design our website. Since then, we’ve progressed to become a digital brand through thought leadership, educational posts and online “social listening.” Today, we have well over 100,000 visitors who come organically to our website each month, over 13K followers on Instagram, one million impressions monthly on Facebook, and participate in other platforms like TikTok. We now have a team of five full-time employees, including me, devoted to social media marketing, listening and engagement.

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/Showtime

NEXT GENERATION

PATRICK SHELTON Vice president of sales, Valdese Weavers | Age 33

Tell us about your company and role. Valdese Weavers is the leading jacquard-weaving textile mill in North America, and we have been manufacturing fabric in Valdese, North Carolina, for over 100 years. My father, Mike Shelton, was formerly the president and CEO for nearly 25 years, and I am currently the vice president of sales and have been in this role for three years. What new innovations and initiatives have you been involved in at your company? The demand for performance fabrics in the residential market has driven our company to establish an all-encompassing portfolio of performance brands. Our partnership with Crypton Home, and the development and launch of InsideOut Performance Fabrics and Sustain Performance Fabrics, has positioned our business to capitalize on this market trend. What recent achievements or improvements are you most proud of? I am most proud of the resiliency of our nearly 900-plus employee owners throughout the pandemic to overcome frequent challenges and uncertainty that we faced daily. The positivity and willingness to adapt speaks to the culture of our company and has helped us minimize any negative impact to our customers. How are you involved in the broader home textile industry? I’m a member of the ITA Board of Directors, and thankful for the opportunity to speak with leaders throughout the industry and discuss ways in which we can promote and improve our industry moving forward.

Introducing Kindred by Regal Fabrics New Showroom Opening Nov 14th @ Showtime 2nd Floor Textile Tower, down the hall from Regal Fabrics

Lifestyle looks featuring natural and sustainable yarns Connected through Comfort

SATTLER OUTDURA

MARKET SQUARE TOWER Fifth Floor Space 505

OVATION 4

A CURATION OF OUTDURA’S BEAUTIFUL PERFORMANCE FABRICS Outdura.com Sales-USA@sattler.com

IN C ONJUNC TION WITH

PRESENT THE

TEMPORARY EXHIBITS AT SHOWTIME

Showtime temporary exhibits are located on the 5th Floor of Market Square Textile Tower and join 80+ permanent showrooms to make Showtime the most thorough fabric, leather and trimmings presentation in the western hemisphere. Temporary Exhibit Hours: Sunday, November 14 | 10:00am – 6:00pm Monday, November 15 | 8:00am – 6:00pm Tuesday, November 16 | 8:00am – 6:00pm Wednesday, November 17 | 8:00am – 12:00pm For more information, please visit: IMCHighPointMarket.com/showtime

#DesignOnHPMkt IMCHighPointMarket.com

WithIt - Women’s Leadership Development Network

Women’s Leadership Development Network

Our vision is to empower and inspire women in the home and furnishings industry, in all stages of their careers, to lead, embrace challenges, succeed and pursue their aspirations with passion and confidence.

• Leadership education & opportunities for professional development • Digital education and a robust online education library • Industry networking with women in fabric, furniture manufacuring, bedding, accessories and interior design

• Peer-to-peer mentoring • WOW Awards - recognizing women in the industry • Design tours • Continuing education and professional conference scholarships

Get WithIt! We invite you to join us at withit.org 2021 WithIt membership ad -ITA.indd 1

10/25/21 3:38 PM

ITA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS for Founders’ Scholarship Program

The International Textile Alliance (ITA) Educational Foundation is accepting applications for internship and scholarship programs providing more than $25,000 in support to students looking to enter the textile industry. ITA member companies sponsoring the scholarships and internships include Crypton, Hamilton Fabrics, P/Kaufmann, Springs Creative and Regal Fabrics.

The application deadline is December 31, 2021, and a Founders Scholarship Application form is available on the ITA website by scanning the QR code to the right.

FOUNDERS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION DEADLINE IS DECEMBER 31, 2021 The ITA Founders’ Scholarship is an annual scholarship set up as a benefit for members and their children, as well as children of parents who are employed by an ITA member. The scholarship recipient receives $2,500 on the first and second year of the winner’s education. Scholarship Criteria Includes: • Must be the child of an employee or an employee of an ITA Member Company • Must be entering college as a freshman in the fall of 2021 or the spring of 2022 • Must be pursuing a career in the home textiles industry • Minimum of a 3.5 GPA • Three letters of recommendation • List their extracurricular activities and awards • Write an essay stating their educational objectives and how it relates to their planned career

The Founders’ Scholarship was established in 2015 by the ITA Board of Directors along with the Educational Foundation to further the organization’s commitment to education and the future of the industry. This scholarship was created to honor our Founding ITA Board of Directors and Members. The founding ITA Board of Director members were: Pete Thompson Terry Baxter Tom Muzekari

Tom Forrester Lee Kabat Fran Luedtke

Founding ITA Member Companies: American Silk Mills Covington Fabric & Design, LLC David Rothschild Co., Inc.

J.B. Martin Co., Inc. P. Kaufmann Fabrics Richloom Fabrics Group Valdese Weavers, Inc.

COMMITTEE CHAIR Kathryn Richardson, Libeco COMMITTEE MEMBERS Jack Eger, Crypton | John Kearns, Hamilton Fabric Sales | Katherine Shoaf, Radiate Textiles Katie Smarr, Crypton | Katie Williams, De Leo Textiles | Terrell Gary, P. Kaufmann | Wesley Mancini, Wesley Mancini, Ltd. A key focus of ITA, its Educational Foundation is dedicated to ensuring the future of the textile industries through the nurturing and promotion of education, scholarship, and career development initiatives. The foundation relies on the support and financial generosity of ITA members and industry leaders to fund these efforts. To make a donation to the foundation, contact the ITA office at 336-885-6842 or info@internationaltextilealliance.org.

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/EducationalFoundation

ITA EDUCATIONAL FOUNDATION

WINNERS OF THE

VIRGINIA JACKSON DESIGN COMPETITION The mission of the Virginia Jackson Design Competition is simple and constant: to educate and support our future designers. Many textile design students have little or no interaction with our industry unless they are fortunate enough to participate in ITA industry tours or land an internship. They are often taught to create without heed to any particular end use. Recognizing this challenge, the Virginia Jackson Design Competition requires students to consider the furniture applications for their designs.

PRINT 1st Place ANNA HAMBY University of Georgia 2nd Place ANA FALCETA Sheridan College Honorable Mention ROSALIND WHARTON Sheridan College

JACQUARD 1st Place KRISTEN TYNAN Jefferson University

“My goal has been to be an educator and creative force in color and design direction for our industry. It is important to nurture, foster and introduce new ideas and talents to the American home fashions scene.”

2nd Place EMILY ROBINSON Jefferson University Honorable Mention OLIVIA GRASSO Jefferson University

~ Virginia Jackson

FOR THEIR GENEROUS SUPPORT whose contributions support ITA Educational Foundation’s commitment to the growth of the textile industry through education, scholarship and career development initiatives. Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

Market Square Textile Tower MST-370

neontextiles.com

ITA MEMBER NEWS

NEW MEMBER Greentex America is an importer and distributor of indoor and outdoor fabrics, as well as ground bases for sublimation for fashion and decor. Greentex is a pioneering company working with advances in nanoscience to develop intelligent fabrics for outdoor with uses for Indoor. The company’s products are the result of their work of research and technology to ensure the quality of fabrics with numerous consumer benefits. With the demand for smart textiles on the rise, Greentex America has worked to develop innovative fabrics to meet their customers’ needs. Among their introductions at the upcoming ITA Showtime Market is the company’s new Ecoplen indoor/outdoor fabric, which boasts antiviral properties that make it more resistant to COVID-19 contamination. Greentex America’s booth is located at MS 517.

NEW MEMBER Tencel, one of the most recognized sustainable fiber brands in the home textiles market, makes fibers for home, interiors and upholstery that offer long-lasting softness. Tencel fibers can be used in carpet, upholstery and fill for furniture, as well as drapery. Additionally, Tencel fibers offer a solution for a more eco-friendly approach to home products and are designed for various applications. Tencel fibers are derived from renewable raw material wood sources and manufactured in an environmentally responsible process, and they are also biodegradable and compostable. They can also be blended with natural fibers like linen and cotton. The Tencel team can provide sourcing options and product development ideas for a more eco-friendly, sustainable product for various home applications (including sheeting, terry, bedding categories like top of bed and filled products).

NEW MEMBER NY Leather Inc. is a wholesaler of European and Asian leather hides for upholstery and leather goods. They work directly with tanners to bring quality hides at reasonable prices. During the November Showtime Market, NY Leather will bring buffalo and cow hides to their booth in MS 524.

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/News

NEW MEMBER Combining market-tested mainstays

and high-concept leathers, Leather Miracles travels the globe to design and source the best styles to suit the furniture industry’s needs.Their primary customers are furniture manufacturers, with the goal to provide manufacturing solutions for their partners beyond just a beautiful cover selection. With more than 200 in-line patterns and an appetite for product development, Leather Miracles offers sustained partnership with a solution-based approach. This season, they offer a selection of buff-off articles that offer the bomber jacket look without the hard work. They also offer bold new hues of blue, green, and pink, as well as neutrals. Leather Miracles’ showroom is located in MST 324.

CARROLL LEATHER MOVES TO NEW SHOWROOM Carroll Leather, a global supplier of fine leather for the residential, contract, hospitality and design industries, has moved its showroom from 110 South Elm St to 201 West High Ave in High Point. The move stems from unprecedented growth in the last year and allows Carroll Leather to show its leathers in a newly renovated space. The new showroom is located directly beside the previous location and offers the same close contact with Showtime buyers.

REGAL LAUNCHES KINDRED SUSTAINABLE LINE Regal Fabrics recently introduced Kindred by Regal Fabrics, a new brand offering a selection of stylish, sustainable fabrics for a growing segment of ecoconscious consumers. Focused on lifestyle looks, the Kindred collection features fabrics made from natural fibers, high percentages of recycled material, or both. Aiming to meet customers at the intersection of style and sustainability, Kindred offers both physical comfort and peace of mind for the modern consumer.

ITA MEMBER NEWS

The line’s first collection will be displayed during the November ITA Showtime Market in a new showroom down the hall from Regal’s permanent location on the 2nd floor of the Market Square Textile Tower.

CULP INTRODUCES CHILLSENSE MATTRESS FABRIC

absorb heat,” says Brian Moore, vice-president of global brand sales for Unifi, Inc. “Fabrics with high effusivity represent the ability of a textile to exchange thermal energy with the skin.” Another unique feature of the partnership between Culp and Unifi is their combined global capacity to navigate the current supply chain issues.

Pairing innovation and a dedication to sustainability, Culp Home Fashions announces its new line of mattress fabrics, ChillSense powered by REPREVE. A result of the continued partnership between Culp and Unifi, Inc., the new mattress fabric line answers consumer demand for cooling performance while keeping sustainability features top of mind.

“Culp has the redundancy to produce and scale this new fabric line,” Veach says. “The raw material can be made locally in Reidsville, and it can also be made overseas, in concert with Culp’s expansive fabric formation capabilities.”

According to Unifi, fabrics made with ChillSense fibers transfer heat from the body to the fabric more quickly, creating a cool sensation to the touch. ChillSense powered by REPREVE is a unique mattress fabric, currently exclusively available through Culp. The fabric is made with ChillSense and at least 30 percent REPREVE, a fiber made from recycled plastic bottles with U TRUST verification to certify recycled content claims.

At the fall ITA Showtime Market, Crypton Home Fabrics will feature a trifecta of programs intended to create solutions for furniture brands and retailers still reeling from delays caused by global supply chain issues and the increased demand in the market for sustainable goods and on-demand deliveries.

“The cooling technology is inherent within the yarn, not requiring the addition of chemicals,” says Jeff Veach, vice-president of sales and marketing for Culp Home Fashions. “ChillSense powered by REPREVE combines performance and sustainability elements in one fabric and represents an affordable offering for our customers and consumers to make a sustainability-based buying decision. “Since 2019, Culp has helped divert over 63 million plastic bottles from going into waste streams by incorporating REPREVE recycled fiber into its mattress and upholstery fabrics products, including the ChillSense powered by REPREVE line. We are excited to offer two great technologies in one.” Understanding the consumer demand for cooling technology in fabrics, Unifi, Inc. created the ChillSense fiber, which has an instantaneous sensation of coolness to the touch. “Fabrics made with ChillSense fibers have a high thermal effusivity—the rate at which a material can

CRYPTON TO UNVEIL NEW CAPSULE QUICK-SHIP AND ARTISAN TEXTURES PROGRAMS AT ITA SHOWTIME

The new programs have all been made possible by Crypton’s 2019 acquisition of the former Abercrombie textile mill in North Carolina, now known as Crypton Mills at Broad River. With this new verticality, Crypton now has the capability to innovate new products such as their Crypton Performance Cotton, to design and craft the U.S.A.-made products in their new Crypton Artisan Textures line and to offer a handy Capsule Quick-Ship line which will be stocked for speedy delivery. “Crypton Mills at Broad River reflects our desire to preserve and strengthen the American textile industry,” says Lance Keziah, Crypton president and CEO. “Our inhouse domestic production allows us to deliver reliably and not be distracted by the breakdown of the global supply chain.” All three programs offer the soft, spill repellent, stain resistant, go-to woven plains and textures for which Crypton has become renowned in the market. Consisting of 16 products across two lines of textural performance upholstery fabrics, the new Capsule QuickShip program offers textiles crafted at Crypton Mills at Broad River. Colby in six colors is a linen-like cloth while Neve in 10 colors is a rich, lively bouclé. The domestic Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

ITA MEMBER NEWS production of these goods means they can be produced quickly and stocked for rapid delivery. “The timely, reliable delivery of beautiful, highquality performance upholstery fabrics is something we always want to be able to offer our customers, regardless of market conditions,” says Jack Eger, senior vice president, Crypton. “Our new verticality and agility with the mill, combined with a well-edited Quick Ship assortment ensures that we can.” Crypton’s design team has created a line of 125 new performance fabrics they are calling the Artisan Textures. Sustainably made at Crypton Mills at Broad River, these textured plains provide a broad range of looks and colorations. “The market can’t withstand long waits for globally sourced goods,” says Elise Gabrielson, Crypton Home marketing director. “Our Artisan Textures are a reliable, easy way to source upholstery essentials that feel elevated and current.” The successful Crypton performance cotton program first debuted at Showtime last fall. An innovative luxury textile, the 50-70 percent recycled cotton performance fabrics are now prominently featured by several leading furniture manufacturers. Crypton will unveil more of these feather-soft, sustainable, first-in-their-class fabrics at November ITA Showtime. Another Crypton Mills production, the cottons may be ordered from the line or developed collaboratively with manufacturers that wish to create an exclusive look. “Helping our brand partners stand out and tell their unique design stories is one of Crypton’s key capabilities,” Gabrielson says.

AMERICA LEATHER RESOURCES IMPLEMENTS DOMESTIC STOCK PROGRAM Considering the logistics and supply-chain disruptions currently faced by the furniture industry, America Leather Resources— leather supplier to the furniture industry with operations in the U.S., South America and Asia—has implemented a domestic stock program warehoused in High Point, North Carolina. The program includes over 40 leather options, designed to expedite market sample orders or quickly fill extra production needs, as well as allowing small volume customers to buy with very low to no MOQs. 34

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/News

Ranging from full anilines to pigmented/corrected leathers, sheepskins and hair-on hides, the program offers an option for those looking for a solution to the upholstery supply chain delays and surcharges. “The opportunities to grow are directly related to our ability of offering solutions for the challenges our customers face,” says Marcelo Lamas, CEO, America Leather Resources. “Logistics costs, labor availability, tariffs and rising raw material prices are driving the industry out of the comfort zone, so our mission is to be constantly innovating to deliver great leathers globally, along with supply chain solutions.” With two showrooms in North America (High Point and Tupelo), another two in China and its headquarters in Brazil, America Leather Resources has a team of high expertise in leather and furniture to service their customers, as well as to integrate the supply chain with cut-and-sewn programs and strategic partners to provide private label furniture manufacturing in Brazil. The company’s High Point office is located at 100 S Main Street and open year-round by appointment.

SUPREEN FROM NASSIMI JOINS MATERIAL CONNEXION LIBRARY Premium faux leather producer Nassimi announced that its new performance fabric, Supreen, has been approved for the Material ConneXion Library — the world’s largest subscription-based materials library of innovative and sustainable materials. “We are honored to have Supreen displayed alongside some of the most cuttingedge materials in the world,” says Iwan Nassimi, executive vice president, Nassimi. “Given the trends we’ve seen over the past year, particularly the demand for surfaces simultaneously offering both comfort and disinfecting properties, there couldn’t be a more perfect time to showcase Supreen. We worked for several years to bring different product technologies together to create a new upholstery material that meets cleanliness and durability standards, yet is incredibly soft and luxurious.” Supreen prioritizes material innovation, sustainability, cleanability and stain-resistant technology. It marries cutting-edge woven and coated technology with a proprietary silicone blend to create a complete liquidbarrier textile, reactively repelling liquids and preventing future stains — all without compromising softness, upholstery capability, or the environment.

ITA MEMBER NEWS

RADIATE TEXTILES INTRODUCES LINE OF SUSTAINABLE FABRICS

“Textile design was an art-based endeavor, and I want to put that creative energy back into our process.”

With the growing emphasis on sustainability, Radiate Textiles introduces RE, their new line of recycled fabrics. RE is made from recycled raw materials and organic cotton using only eco-friendly practices of the highest standard.

To do so, she partnered with Richloom—reuniting the design visionaries behind the lauded DwellStudio for Robert Allen collection.

“We believe in being responsible global citizens by embracing sustainable practices both socially and environmentally,” says David Titlebaum, president and founder, Radiate Textiles. “We are thrilled about this new offering and how RE can reduce our customers’ impact on the environment.”

“Richloom is excited to collaborate with Christiane, a visionary in the home furnishings arena who has achieved great success in bringing new perspectives to trend and design,” says Jim Richman, CEO. In Richloom, Lemieux found the ideal partnership with a team who not only shared her artistic vision, but also a deep love and understanding of process.

On average, one yard of our RE fabrics prevents 100 500ml-PET bottles from entering the ecosystem. All products are GRS and OEKO-TEX Standard 100 compliant and certified. Their cotton fabrics are GOTS, OCS or BCI cotton for better traceability and impact. RE fabrics reduce the use of raw materials, energy usage, air and water pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

“The Richloom team has three generations of textile manufacturing and deep knowledge of quality and beauty. They bring this heritage to every aspect of our partnership,” she says. “I am learning from this team every day.”

DESIGNER CHRISTIANE LEMIEUX DEBUTS MATERIAL ARCHIVE COLLECTION WITH RICHLOOM Following the launch of her new home brand, Lemieux Et Cie, at High Point Market in 2020, acclaimed designer and television personality Christiane Lemieux returns to High Point to celebrate the release of her “Material Archive” collection with Richloom during ITA Showtime in November. The 83-SKU collection brings to the forefront Lemieux’s love of design history and the artistic process. “For this archive, I pulled inspiration from my personal collection of textile fragments, a library I have been building over a lifetime,” she says. “But this archive isn’t just a celebration of print, it is a celebration of process.” Each fabric evolved from a series of hand-drawn sketches, illustrations and color explorations—just as it was done for hundreds of years. “People didn’t have Adobe back then,” Lemieux says.

EASTMAN AND MILLIKEN & COMPANY JOIN CIRCULARITY STEERING COMMITTEE Eastman and Milliken & Company recently joined the Accelerating Circularity Inc. U.S. steering committee, which provides strategy and guidance to the sustainability-focused project. The new members, who have both made investments in and commitments to the transition to circular, textileto-textile supply systems, will support a wider range of chemical recycling options and textile manufacturing capabilities as the project moves into the trial phase. Current members also include Gap Inc., Giotex, Gr3n, Lenzing, Nike, Target, VF Corp., and Unifi. “With Eastman Naia Renew cellulosic fiber, we are committed to making sustainable textiles accessible to all,” says Jon Woods, general manager for textiles, Eastman. “We are thrilled to join Accelerating Circularity and see this collaboration as key to shaping and scaling up the recycling infrastructure needed to achieve a circular textiles industry.” “We have invested in the ability to explore innovative materials through our Rapid Prototype Center,” says Chad McAllister, president, textile division and executive vice president, Milliken & Company. “It’s perfect for validating new circular feedstocks to scale into commercial production. Joining Accelerating Circularity

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

ITA MEMBER NEWS allows us to collaborate with a wide range of industry stakeholders with similar goals.” Potential circular system trial feedstocks, fibers, technologies and finished goods have been identified through extensive consultation with collectors, sorters, preprocessors, recyclers, yarn spinners, fabric mills and brands and retailers. Collection, sorting and preprocessing of targeted trial feedstocks began in September.

CULP AIDS EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS WITH HANDS FOR HAITI In the wake of the August earthquake that caused destruction in Haiti, Culp led a “Hands for Haiti” donation drive to help victims in affected areas of the country. More than 6.5 tons of donations were sent to Culp’s production facilities in Ouanaminthe, Haiti, for distribution to earthquake victims.

CULP associates Brian Tinsley, Angel McCreary, Jenny Barnhill, Nigel Anderson and Ken Williamson with the 45-ft. container truck filled with donations headed for the port of Miami and then on to Haiti.

Culp’s facilities are not located near the epicenter of the quake, and the company did not sustain any damage or harm to its facilities or employees, but many employees have family members affected by the disaster. Knowing some of the extended Culp family needed help, and with the logistical capability to get supplies to Haiti, the company quickly reacted. With the hopes of making a sizable impact, Culp expanded its reach beyond its employees and opened up the donation drive to the community. “Our company is grateful to be a part of the caring community of High Point,” said Iv Culp, president and CEO of Culp, Inc. “The combined efforts of our Culp employees, the community, and the industry have been remarkable. We want to thank everyone who played a part in this magnificent effort of generosity.”

A team of Culp associates inside one of Culp’s facilities in Haiti.

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/News

AMERICAN SILK MILLS NAMES NEW EXECUTIVES American Silk Mills announced that Oscar Reig-Plaza was named chief executive officer. Plaza is the former VP of sales at Covington Fabrics and owner of Barcelona Sales. Reig-Plaza joins an executive team at American Silk that already features seasoned home furnishings player Jeff Oscar Reig-Plaza, CEO Smith as senior EVP of sales and marketing, and furniture industry merchandising veteran Kena Cohenour, who was named director of design and merchandising earlier this year. Reig-Plaza will also be responsible for American Silk’s parent Sutlej Textiles and Industries Limited’s home textile division. The operational synergies created by the two companies will enhance the ability for American Silk Mills to create, produce, and distribute a range of luxury textiles. Cohenour was the former vice president of textiles and upholstery merchandising for Bassett Furniture, with more than 20 years of leading and building a productive textile Kena Cohenour, director of assortment and merchandising design and merchandising for various account types. Cohenour has proven success in fostering and maintaining relationships with top accounts and suppliers to increase overall productivity and profitability.

MILLIKEN & COMPANY PUBLISHES CORPORATE SUSTAINABILITY REPORT Global manufacturer Milliken & Company released its third-annual corporate sustainability report, entitled “Together for Tomorrow.” This report, which analyzes Milliken’s performance through the lens of its holistic sustainability efforts, highlights its progress towards the 2025 sustainability goals the company set in 2018. Covering people, product and planet, this report creates increased accountability while inviting new conversations and collaborations as the company works to create a positive impact on the world that will last generations. “Together, we met the critical moments from 2020,” says Halsey Cook, president and CEO, Milliken. “We pivoted production lines, launched new innovations and rallied our team to improve our sustainability metrics in 10 of 12 strategic categories. Our sustainability initiatives have

ITA MEMBER NEWS momentum and are fundamentally changing our business.” As a material science expert serving the chemical,flooring, textile and healthcare industries, Milliken associates annually review and report on the company’s progress, and their findings shape this report. Completed in alignment with the Global Reporting Initiative framework, Together for Tomorrow is available to the public as a digital experience with downloadable content.

SATTLER OUTDURA ANNOUNCES NEW SENIOR DESIGNER, PROJECT MANAGER Sattler Outdura, a division of The Sattler Group, Austria, announces the promotion of Mariia Elizarova to senior designer, as well as the addition of Chris Caldwell as product manager for Outdura casual furniture and Sattler shade fabrics. As part of the Sattler design team, Elizarova is responsible for designing the fabrics Sattler Outdura offers for both their outdoor and shade collections. “Her relentless work and support for our Sattler and Mariia Elizarova, senior designer Outdura collections along with herstunning designs and inspirations reflect her passion to the industry and her commitment to our brand,” says Ulrich Tombuelt, CEO, Sattler Outdura. Elizarova is an artist and designer with a fondness for woven textiles, fashion, prints, patterns and illustration. She received her bachelor´s degree in applied arts from Saint-Petersburg State University in Russia, and her master’s degree in textile art and design from the Aalto University School of Arts, Design and Architecture in Helsinki, Finland. Elizarova, living in Graz, Austria, has worked as a staff designer for Sattler and Sattler Outdura since 2015. “I value the journey I am making with Sattler and the diverse experiences I am gaining along the way,” Elizarova says. “I appreciate this wonderful opportunity to expand my contribution to the company and enhance the Sattler and Outdura lines with new ideas and design creations. It has been great to meet with our clients and retail partners during my recent trip to the Casual Market Chicago, to celebrate our mutual achievements of this challenging year and, of course, to set up exciting new goals.” In his new role, Caldwell will be responsible for the development, analysis and management of all furniture

and shade fabrics as well as working closely with sales and business development to enhance Outdura’s image and create long-term value to the organization. “We’re looking to Chris to add his experience to our growing business that will take us to the next level in sales, delivery and overall service,” Tombuelt said. Caldwell comes to Sattler Outdura with a strong management background in production, product development and sourcing, as well as new business development.

Chris Caldwell, product manager

“Being from this area, Sattler Outdura has a great reputation as a trusted company in the community and while I’m looking forward to the challenge of this position, I’m eager to learn more about the industry and to see our progress,” Caldwell said.

ULTRAFABRICS LAUNCHES BREATHABLE SPECTRA LINE New York-based Ultrafabrics launches Spectra—a textured and breathable addition to its portfolio of performance fabrics—this month at the ITA Showtime Market in High Point, North Carolina. The collection has been carefully formulated to look like a woven surface, and is engineered with proprietary technology that allows the fabric to breathe and moderate body temperature in seating applications. It also has acoustical benefits. As with every product crafted in the Ultrafabrics Japanese mill, Spectra exceeds the highest expectations for quality and softness. More than 20 years ago, Ultrafabrics sought to redefine expectations of animal-free fabrics and has continued to raise the bar on comfort and performance since. Spectra’s design was inspired by the geometry of contemporary architecture, and the fragmented texture features a tone-on-tone prismatic effect. The color palette is a nod to the Bauhaus and Art Deco movements with a mixture of brights, complex shades and neutrals featured in the sizable offering of 19 shades.

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

ITA MEMBER NEWS “We’ve always had our ear to the ground in all of the markets we serve. From interiors to automotive and aviation, the market is looking to expand their options beyond leather-like solutions. Spectra merges the beauty of woven fabric with the durability and breathable technology that is unmatched in the market,” says A.R. Swan, director of marketing. “Spectra’s texture captures the richness of woven and is equally comfortable in luxury residence, healthcare environment or on the seat of a truck. And its bleach cleanability is top of mind with all of our clients.” Ultrafabrics also has announced its plans to donate a portion of the profits from Spectra throughout 2021 to Create. Awarded as the UK’s Charity of the Year in 2020, Create engages marginalized communities through inspiring, sustainable arts programs. Their workshops engage all age groups as they work closely with schools, hospitals, homeless shelters and prisons.

DESIGNERS SHOWCASE VISION BOARDS USING OUTDURA FABRICS

with unique accessories and furnishings,” Serany said. “Outdura’s performance fabrics are our go-to favorites for families. Their amazing combination of patterns, textures and colors are a dream for designers.” Kahn opted for “Sanctuary” as the theme for her board. “My goal was to create a tranquil place to snuggle with your dog, to paint, to read a book, or just relax,” Kahn said. “I opted for the luscious blue, green and white Outdura fabrics as my color palette because they blend well with the colors most easily found in the natural world. They are so perfect to create a welcoming refuge to promote healing, peace, and wellbeing. Another big plus in using Outdura indoor/outdoor fabrics is that they are so cleanable and durable, which makes them ideal for indoor use as well.” Modern Oasis, the theme chosen by Chung, utilizes a neutral color palette with a concentration on solid and textured fabrics contrasted with bold pattern.

Designers Vicky Serany from Southern Studio Interior Design in North Carolina, Lisa Kahn from Lisa Kahn Designs in Florida and Jeanne Chung from Cozy Stylish Chic in California shared the ways they use Outdura fabrics in their projects with vision boards on display in the High Point Sattler Outdura showroom, MS 505.

“The Outdura fabric selections were used to convey a calm, tranquil, zen-like oasis for this outdoor pool area and cabana,” she said. “Catering to the sophisticated millennial client, our vision is to create a modern and luxurious outdoor space—an extension of the home, complete with dining area and outdoor kitchen that incorporates modern lines with natural materials. The Outdura fabric selections made this extremely easy to achieve.”

“It was interesting to see how designers from three distinctly different areas of the country uniquely applied our fabrics to their lifestyle projects,” said Uli Tombuelt, Sattler/Outdura CEO and director of sales casual furniture division. “We believe the design boards will serve as be an inspiration to others, giving manufacturers, retailers and our designer clients a fresh sense of how Outdura fabrics can be creatively employed.”

Covington announces the second collection with designer and HGTV star, Hilary Farr. Featuring an eclectic mixture of sustainable and ecofriendly product, as well as outdoor fabric, the new fabrics also color coordinate back to Farr’s first Covington collection.

Serany designed her board with junior designer Annie Gray Holt around the outdoor theme “Sand and Sea.” They chose this idea because it coincides with many of the coastal projects that they work on. “We used the timeless color scheme of blues from the sea and neutrals from the sand, but gave it a fresh perspective 38

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/News

COVINGTON LAUNCHES SECOND HILARY FARR LINE

Amberley is a delicately detailed embroidered Jacobean vine floral design. Offered in four vivacious color combinations, this embroidery coordinates with Gloucester, Covington’s highly textured, 100 percent recycled polyester, woven herringbone plaid.

ITA MEMBER PRODUCTS

America Leather Resources 100 S. Main St.

Anthem Leather MS 513

Barrow Industries MSTT 9th Floor

Bartson Fabrics, Inc. 410 W. English Rd. Suite A221

BDHome MSTT 8th Floor

Brentwood Textiles HFRC 3rd Floor

Carroll Leather 201 W High Ave.

Covington Fabric & Design MSTT 8th Floor

Crest Leather HFRC 3rd Floor

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

ITA MEMBER PRODUCTS

Culp MSTT 4th Floor

Crypton MSTT 4th Floor

David Rothschild Fabrics MSTT 7th Floor

SHOWTIME NOVEMBER 14-17

C RY P TO N S H O W R O O M 4 t h F LO O R

De Leo MSTT 2nd Floor

@cryptonfabric

Golding Fabrics Inc. MSTT 7th Floor

Direct Textile MST 510

conciencia ecológica

Green Hides Leather Studio MS 519

Greentex America MS 517

Global Textile Alliance MS 246

Please join us at the Beer Garden Sunday-Tuesday 4-6 pm for Drinks and Belgian Waffle Bar.

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/Showtime

MARKET SQUARE 246

ITA MEMBER PRODUCTS

Laura & Kiran MST 506

Leather Miracles MST 324

Light Tex International MS 540

Milliken MSTT 4th Floor

Morgan Fabrics Corporation RC 3rd Floor

Nassimi MSTT 2nd Floor

Neon Textiles MSTT 3rd Floor

Noveltex, Inc. MSTT 3rd Floor

NY Leather MS 524

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

Performace Series

ITA MEMBER PRODUCTS

Come visit us during ITA Showtime! 9th Floor at Market Square Tower

Leather for active lifestyles.

Optima Leathers MS 536

P/K Lifestyles MSTT 7th Floor

PMT Fabric, Inc. HFRC 2nd Floor

Visit us at MS-535

www.optimaleathers.com

Upholstery Collection richloom.com

Radiate Textiles MSTT 9th Floor

Regal Fabrics, Inc. MSTT 2nd Floor

Richloom MSTT 9th Floor

Rioma, Inc. MS 556

Sattler Outdura MST 505

South Pacific Textile MST 504

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/Showtime

Platinum Collection

ITA MEMBER PRODUCTS

Stein Fibers, LTD / Corttex MST 510A

STI - Revolution Fabrics

Swavelle MSTT 8th Floor

Symphony Mills MS 246

Tayo Originals MS 530

Tencel

Ultrasuede®

Textile Fabric Associates MSTT 8th Floor

Valdese Weavers 311 N Hamilton St., 3rd Floor

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

ITA 21/2022 MEMBERS

Abercrombie Textiles............................................abercrombietextiles.com AHFA - American Home Furnishings Alliance...............................ahfa.us Alendel......................................................................................................... alendel.com Amalgamated Textiles Inc........................................................................................... America Leather Resources....................................................................................... American Silk Mills.................................................................... americansilk.com Ameritex Home Product...............................................textiljserrano.com.br Anthem Leather.....................................................................anthemleather.com Aydin Tekstil Tic. ve Paz. A.S...........................................aydintekstil.com.tr Barbarossa Leather.................................................... barbarossaleather.com Bartson Fabrics, Inc............................................................bartsonfabrics.com Bella Home Furnishings..................................................................bellahome.us Bella-Dura Home............................................................................ bella-dura.com Belle Maison Textiles, Inc............................................... bellemaisonusa.com Brentwood Textiles.....................................................brentwoodtextiles.com Bru USA.........................................................................................................brutex.com Carroll Leather...........................................................................carrollleather.com Catania Fabrics....................................................................... cataniafabrics.com Classical Elements LLC...............................................classicalelements.com Comersan Fabrics Corp.............................................comersanFabrics.com Covington Fabric & Design, LLC.............................. covingtonfabric.com Crest Leather.................................................................................crestleather.com Crestmont Fabrics......................................................... crestmontfabrics.com Crypton Fabric *Showtime Sponsor*..............CryptonFabric.com Culp, Inc..............................................................................................................culp.com David Rothschild Co., Inc..........................................davidrothschildco.com De Leo Textiles...................................................................................... deleoco.com DEFEND by TSG.......................................................................... tsgfinishing.com Direct Textiles Inc.............................................................................dtifabrics.com E.T.G. Tekstil San. Ve Tic. Ltd. Sti.............................................believe.com.tr Elite Textiles, Inc....................................................................... elitetextileinc.com Euroleather Inc................................................................................ euroleather.net Europatex, Inc.................................................................................. europatex.com Fabrics & Furnishings International..........fabricsandfurnishings.com Fabricut......................................................................................................fabricut.com Golding Fabrics Inc........................... pkaufmann.com/divisions/golding Great Scot International, Inc. ............................................greatscotintl.com Green Hides Leather Studio..................................................greenhides.com Greentex America *NEW*............................. greentexamerica.com Gum Tree Fabrics, Inc...................................................... gumtreefabrics.com Hamilton Fabric Sales, Inc........................................................................................... Harper Home............................................................................. harper-home.com Heico Fasteners Inc............................................................heicofasteners.com High Point Market Authority.......................................highpointmarket.org High Rock Fabrics..............................................................highrockfabrics.com Home Couture Collective NY.................................................trimqueen.com Home Secrets Textile...............................................homesecretstextile.com IHFRA....................................................................................................................ihfra.org J.B. Martin Co., Inc............................................................................. jbmartin.com JBS Leather..................................................................................................jbs.com.br JLA Fabrics..............................................................................................jlahome.com KasLen Textiles.........................................................................kaslentextiles.com King Textiles, LLC/ Ameriphlox Trimmings............kingtextilesllc.com Kravet Inc......................................................................................................kravet.com Laura & Kiran...................................................................................... laurakiran.com Leather Miracles *NEW*...................................leathermiracles.com Libeco..............................................................................................................libeco.com Light Tex Fabric Intl......................................................................................................... Live Furnish *NEW*.................................................... Livefurnish.com Magnus Leather Company.............................................magnusleather.com

www.InternationalTextileAlliance.org/member_lists

Marlatex Corporation.......................................................................marlatex.com MAYAFAB (harmel)..........................................................................mayafab.com Merrimac Textile...............................................................barrowindustries.com Milliken & Company..................................... millikenspecialtyinteriors.com Moore & Giles, Inc............................................................... mooreandgiles.com Morgan Fabrics......................................................................morganfabrics.com Nassimi LLC..............................................................................................nassimi.com Neon Textiles................................................................................neontextiles.com Nice Link Home Furnishing......................................................................................... North Carolina State University - College of Textiles...... tx.ncsu.edu Noveltex Inc..............................................................................................noveltex.net NY Leather Inc. *NEW*........................................................................... Optima Leathers..................................................................optimaleathers.com Outdura......................................................................................................outdura.com P. Kaufmann Fabrics......................................... customers.pkaufmann.com PARA’..........................................................................................................................para.it Paragon-Global.....................................................paragonglobaltextiles.com PK Lifestyles....................................................................................pklifestyles.com Plastex International, Inc.................................................................. plastex.com PMT Fabric, Inc................................................................................................................... Portfolio International.................................................................................................... Premier Prints, Inc...........................................................premierprintsinc.com Radiate Textiles...................................................................... radiatetextiles.com Regal Fabrics, Inc........................................................................regalfabrics.com Richloom................................................................................................. richloom.com Rioma, Inc...............................................................................................riomainc.com RM COCO Décor Ltd.........................................................................rmcoco.com S & D Fine Upholstery Leather SRL...................................................................... Silk Crafts, Inc...................................................................................................................... South Pacific Textile........................................................................................................ Stadler Leather Inc................................................................ stadlerleather.com Stein Fibers, Ltd. ............................................................................steinfibers.com STI Revolution...........................STIfabrics.com & revolutionfabrics.com Sunbelievable........................................................................... sunbelievable.com Sunbrella.................................................................................................sunbrella.com Sustainable Furnishings Council..................sustainablefurnishings.org Swavelle................................................................................................................................... Symphony Mills..................................................................... symphonymills.com Tana Bana Design Services LLC...........................................tana-bana.com Tayo Originals...................................................................................................................... Tempo Fabrics..........................................................................tempofabrics.com TENCEL (tm) Branded Fibers by Lenzing Fibers..........................................lenzing.com and tencel.com Ter Molst International.....................................................................termolst.com Textile Fabric Associates, LLC.................................................................................. Tiger Leather *NEW*................................................tigerleather.com Trimland Inc............................................................................................trimland.com True North Fabrics........................................................................................................... ULTRAFABRICS.....................................................................ultrafabricsinc.com Ultrasuede® by Toray International America, Inc........... ultrasuede.us Unique Fine Fabrics Import.....................................uniquefinefabrics.com UTP America.............................................................................................utp.com.mx Valdese Weavers............................................................... valdeseweavers.com Valiant Fabrics...........................................................................valiantfabrics.com Vision Fabrics............................................................................vision-fabrics.com Weavers Tekstil A.S. by Boyteks............................................... boyteks.com Westwood Weavers........................................................................................................ Yarn & Loom......................................................................................................................... Z - Wovens...........................................................................................z-wovens.com Zensilk Inc *NEW*........................................................ zensilkinc.com

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UPCOMING D AT E S

T O

R E M E M B E R

January 11-14, 2022 Heimtextil Frankfurt, Germany

April 5-7, 2022 Proposte Cernobbio, Italy

October 22-26, 2022 High Point Market High Point, NC

April 2-6, 2022 High Point Market High Point, NC

May 22-25, 2022 ITA Showtime Market High Point, NC

November 1-5, 2022 Evteks Istanbul, Turkey

Next ITA Showtime® Market • May 22-25, 2022

Performace Series

Leather for active lifestyles.

Visit us at MS-535

Showtime Magazine | Fall & Winter 2021

Articles inside

ITA Member News

ITA Educational Foundation

Next Generation: These Textile Industry Leaders Carry the Family Torch While Forging a Bold Future

Pandemic Performance: How COVID Has Driven Demand for Faux Leather

Inappropriate Inspiration: Why Cultural Appropriation is Problematic

Style Influencer - Cheryl Luckett

Style Influencer - Breegan Jane

ITA Member Story - Valdese Weavers

ITA Member Story - Bartson

ITA Member Story - Ultrasuede

Letter from the ITA President