[TC]² Bi-Weekly Technology Communicator

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Seminar Offerings at [TC]²

Still accepting registrations!

Pattern Development bridges the perceived chasm between design and manufacturing. Understanding core concepts and terms can greatly reduce sewing problems and ease the transition from the corporate fit image to garment sales. Attend this class to learn the driving forces even if automated systems are used to do the majority of the work.  

Learn introductory principles of fit, pattern development, and marker making. Hands-on activities include flat pattern manipulations and drafting.

[TC]²’s best attended in-house seminar, Intro to Apparel Manufacturing, offers an overview of the entire manufacturing process with numerous hands-on exercises. Topics covered include: textile fundamentals, fiber formation and fabric design, fabric characteristics, material utilization, spreading and cutting theories, and much more. Key apparel terms and concepts are featured, along with standard terminology for seam and stitch formations.

Learn basic principles of fit and grading. Hands-on projects include deriving grade rules and manual grading of three basic garments.

Basic stitch formation and seam constructions are described, and explanations for which stitch and seam type to use for specific products are outlined.

The seminars will be presented at [TC]²’s facility - 5651 Dillard Drive, Cary, NC.

To r egister, contact Debra Gill at 919.653.3501, or use our contact form.

For more information on these programs and other educational offerings, go to: http://www.tc2.com/what/seminars.html.

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Emerging Technologies for Digital Textile Printing

By Kerry King, [TC]²

”Digital textile printing” is a phrase typically used to describe the process of inkjet printing on fabric. On the surface, this sounds relatively simple. However, the words “fabric” and “textile” encompass a wide range of substrates that differ in ways that include fiber type, fabric construction, and preparation. From the coloration perspective, these factors have dictated the need for the development of specialized printing systems that include a combination of hardware, software, ink chemistry, and auxiliary equipment for fabric preparation and finishing. These digital print systems have been engineered with the goal of managing the variables and optimizing the results of digital imaging on textile substrates.

To read the entire article, go to the techexchange library.

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Manufacturing: Keeping it Domestic

By Kim Anderson, [TC]²

More and more companies are closing down their domestic manufacturing plants in favor of overseas sources that offer cheap, cheap labor. However, keeping manufacturing in the U.S. has far-reaching benefits—benefits that exceed the adage known as quick response. The importance of domestic manufacturing to the U.S. economy is immense—manufacturing in the U.S. generates about 1.6 trillion dollars annually, directly employs 14 million Americans and supports 8 million more jobs. Manufacturing is crucial to ensuring a strong economy. In fact, American manufacturing is the largest single contributor to the U.S. economy. Unfortunately, since 1999, over 40,000 manufacturing facilities have closed.

Apparel companies continue to make a mass exodus to countries offering cheap labor. Many American apparel companies act more like importers. This trend has adversely affected the U.S. economy. A recent study showed that replacement wages for workers who lost their jobs, and found subsequent employment, fall far below the wages paid in their former manufacturing jobs.

Keeping manufacturing domestic not only creates higher paying jobs but has some less obvious benefits as well. In the retail sector alone, every 100 manufacturing jobs generates 94 new jobs elsewhere. This multiplier effect demonstrates how the manufacturing sector has tremendous benefits to the overall economy.

Productivity within the U.S. sector continues to increase. A recent report studied seventeen economies for seven years. Between 2000 and 2007, only Korea, Taiwan, and Sweden had greater productivity growth in manufacturing than the U.S.

There is also a high-tech innovative labor force residing in the U.S. manufacturing sector. American manufacturers are responsible for two-thirds of research and development investments in the United States, and nearly 80 percent of all patents filed. American manufacturers are the leading buyers of new technology.

With the introduction of nanotechnology, new robotics, lasers and advancements in biotechnology, the U.S. manufacturing sector has great potential for renewed growth. It is paramount that manufacturing be an integral part of the U.S. economy. With domestic manufacturing, the economy can thrive. Without domestic manufacturing, the economy will falter.

References
Alliance for American Manufacturing, http://www.americanmanufacturing.org/issues/manufacturing

United States Department of Labor, http://www.bls.gov/news.release/prod4.nr0.htm

National Association of Manufacturers, http://www.nam.org/

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[TC]² Activity
[TC]² Assists with Mosquito Net Start-up in Africa

By Gloria McConnell, [TC]²

In August of this year, I accompanied Andy Butenhoff of Anovotek to Kampala, Uganda to assist Mosquito Net Village (MNV) with their first industrial scale production trials of DuraNet long-lasting insecticide treated nets (LLIN’s).

MNV was established in 2007 in partnership with Cooper Uganda Ltd. as the first, and currently only, manufacturing company dedicated to the cutting and sewing of mosquito nets in Uganda. The company’s short term goal is to provide quality and cost effective mosquito nets to all people in Uganda. In April 2009, the management of MNV and Cooper Uganda Ltd. were introduced to the management of Clarke Mosquito Control, one of only six companies worldwide that has obtained WHOPES¹ Phase II approval for its LLIN product called DuraNet. USAID² and the AED NetMark³ agreed to sponsor MNV’s first series of industrial scale DuraNet production trials by funding technology transfer assistance from Anovotek, LLC as well as the purchase and air shipment of enough roll good fabric to produce 500 LLN’s.

Anovotek solicited assistance from [TC]² for the cutting and sewing portion of the project. We worked together to provide MNV’s management and production associates with product assembly and HSE (health safety and environmental) information and training. [TC]²’s initial involvement was in contributing to a handbook. The handbook contained a comprehensive guide for establishing and optimizing a cutting and sewing facility for the production of mosquito nets. Jack Nienke and I provided information in the following areas:

- Detailed description of operations including labor and productivity benchmarks
- Recommended equipment, facility layouts and capital budgets
- Training tips for cutting and sewing machine operators
- Strategies for improving efficiency and manufacturing flexibility

In August of 2009, Andy and I traveled to Kampala to provide further assistance to MNV. This trip included:

- A review of the HSE equipment and procedures
- Cutting and sewing operator training
- Work station design recommendations
- Production layout for the sewing room
- Equipment upgrade recommendations for future purchases
- Operational efficiency benchmarks
- Management training in a variety of topics (ergonomics, product costing, general facility management, etc.)

At the end of the visit, the production associates displayed their appreciation for the assistance with a program of traditional music and dance.  It is hoped that the assistance provided by Anovotek and [TC]² will assist MNV in their vision to become one of Africa’s leading LLIN manufacturers by the year 2017.

The Industry Services Division of [TC]² provides consulting services in many areas of the industry around the globe. Often beginning with a Plant Assessment and/or a Business Process Analysis, the Industry Services team provides on-site training and development in Lean Practices and Organizational Culture, as well as Industrial Engineering. For further information on these and other valued services, please contact Will Duncan at (919) 653-3505 or via our contact form.

¹WHOPES  World Health Organization Pesticide Evaluation Scheme – (promotes and coordinates the testing and evaluation of pesticides for public health.)
²US Agency for International Development
³AED NetMark Project dedicated to reducing malaria in Africa by building commercial markets for insecticide treated bed nets

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Partner Profile - Thread & Trim Suppliers

By Karen Davis, [TC]²

Thread and Trim Suppliers, S.A., has been in existence in Central America since 1993, under various company names. It has operated as Thread and Trim Suppliers, (TTS), since 2000. It maintains extensive product inventory in Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua. Honduras is a valued U.S./Central America-Dominican Republic Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR) partner.

The companies represented by TTS include:  Llovet Sales Co.; Wayne Mills Co.; Franklin Braid Manufacturing; Insta Graphic Systems; Label Industries; Mayfair Labels; Sew Easy Industries; Fine Art Machinery; Corporacion Rey; and Scovill Inc. The product lines it represents incorporate interlinings, buttons, embroidery backings, grippers, zippers, thread, labels, woven tapes, reflective tapes, bindings, webbing, cords and branding, buckles, elastic, ribbons, pocketing, and software. By maintaining inventory in-country in or near the Free Trade Zones, TTS is able to fulfill orders quickly; in most instances, within 24 hours. The company also cuts interlinings with its in-house slitting and slotting equipment. With an eye to expanding business capabilities, TTS is open to new investors who would like to partner in the region.

Tony Medina, President and General Manager, has a twenty year background in the industry, aiding apparel companies to set up operations in Honduras.  He has a wealth of product knowledge and is supported by a team of sales and customer service staff who represent various product lines. Medina is a member of the Board of Directors of the Honduran Manufacturers Association (AHM) and is a leader in local community affairs. 

TTS has already signed on to exhibit at next year’s SPESA Expo at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Comments Medina, “SPESA Expo 2010 will be an ideal opportunity to bring company awareness to potential US partners.  We expect to identify new product lines we can add to our offerings.”

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Material World Opening Night Cocktail Reception

benefiting the

AAFA Education Foundation

Presented in cooperation with California Apparel News and the California Market Center

September 30, 2009
5:30 - 7:30 PM
Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising

Tickets available for purchase at: www.apparelandfootwear.org

The AAFA Education Foundation provides scholarships to students in the sewn products industry through funding to thirteen AAFA-endorsed institutions. Since 1968, over 2,500 students have benefited from your generous contributions. Sponsorships are available.

Shuttle service will be provided from the California Market Center to the FIDM. Material World is an official event of the AAFA.

Key Sponsors:

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Apparel’s Tech Conference
The Apparel Industry’s Must-Attend Technology Event
November 11 - 12, 2009 | Fashion Institute of Technology | New York, NY

New in 2009 - Expanded Hours!

New in 2009 - All Educational Sessions To Include Case Studies!

Apparel's Tech Conference is an ideal environment for apparel brands, manufacturers and retailers to preview technology solutions and services from a select group of providers. Combining keynote presentations from industry thought-leaders with ongoing educational workshops and a Tabletop Exhibit area, the Conference provides convenient access to information and ideas designed to help you in your strategic technology decision-making.

Content focus includes: Design and Product Development, including PLM; Manufacturing; Information Technology; Sourcing, Logistics, Transportation; and Retail Intelligence. All of the 2009 concurrent educational sessions will include a case study component.

The Opening Keynote Session on November 11 will include recognition of Apparel's 2009 All-Stars. That same day, all Tech Conference attendees are invited to a Networking Reception immediately following the final sessions.

Attendance is complimentary for qualified apparel brands, manufacturers and retailers.

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Important Dates

September

October

For detailed information about industry events, visit www.techexchange.com

Thanks to the techexchange site sponsors
Apparel Magazine, Gerber Technology, Lawson, Lectra, Methods Workshop and Reach Technologies.

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A Look Ahead in the Newsletter



MAGIC Show
Gerber User’s Conference Review
IFAI

View previous editions of this newsletter

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[TC]²
5651 Dillard Drive
Cary , NC 27518
www.tc2.com
Phone: 919-380-2156
Fax: 919-380-2181

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