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Fabric basics

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  Awnings & canopies

  April 1, 2009

  What types of fabric exist, and how to select the right ones.

• Definitions to know

  April 1, 2009

  A glossary of key terms to know when using fabric.

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  Fabric structures

  April 1, 2009

  The material’s role in the structure’s performance makes the selection process especially important.

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  Graphics applications

  April 1, 2009

  The key to selecting the proper fabric is knowing the function a banner or graphic element is to perform.

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  Photocatalyst technology adds value to fabric

  May 1, 2005

  The word "photocatalyst" may be unfamiliar to you, but it is mentioned frequently in Japan's business media; it is now well known by most business people in Japan.

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  Basalt continuous filament could be the fiber of the future

  July 1, 2004

  BCF has distinct advantages over mineral fibers like carbon, ceramic and glass fibers.

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  Japanese fabric companies attempt to develop substitute for PVC

  March 1, 2003

  Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is an extremely popular material used in a wide variety of applications, including construction, industrial fabrics, filtration, medical products, food wraps, toys, and many others.

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  Spacer considerations

  July 1, 2001

  Manufactured in a wide range of forms, 3-D fabrics can be used for construction, soil retention or acoustic attenuation

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  Revisiting vinyl-coated cotton

  January 1, 2001

  Vinyl-coated cotton still has strong roots in the awning industry, where it’s well-adapted to its niche.

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  Utilization of vinyl-coated polyester fabrics for architectural applications—Part 2

  September 1, 2000

  This article covers the issues of wicking, ultraviolet light and weathering, fungus and mildew, flame resistance, cleaning and fabric aesthetics when working with vinyl-coated polyester fabrics for architectural applications.

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  Utilization of vinyl-coated polyester fabrics for architectural applications—Part 1

  July 1, 2000

  This article covers the performance properties of vinyl-coated polyester fabrics and their tensile strength, uniaxial and biaxial elongation, dimensional stability, tear strength, coating adhesion, and weldability and seam strength of architectural fabrics.

• Fashioning outdoor elements

  The fashion industry’s top designers dressed the runway with eye-catching, flirtatious colors and fabrics for their spring 2010 collections. Fashionistas were enamored with new trends, including neutral tones, metallic shades and all-American inspired pieces. Incorporate these fashion trends into shade solutions for your next outdoor design.

  Go nude
  Fashion designers Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs and Rachel Roy adorned models with soft fabrics in neutral colors nude, blush and light peach.

  Take this trend outside by creating an outdoor living space that features retractable awnings with neutral-color fabrics that complement the natural elements. Sunbrella® offers a line of performance awning fabrics, which includes several neutral-colored patterns. Sunbrella has a wide array of solids, stripes and patterns in various neutral tones.

  Stay gold
  Designers Jill Stuart, Derek Lam and Phillip Lim showcased flashy metallic dresses, skirts and accessories on the runway. Reflecting off the photographers’ flashes, the metallic outfits illuminated the show.

  It’s easy to incorporate metallic-colored fabrics into any outdoor living space. Main Street® + awning fabric includes Bronze and Copper colors that shimmer in the sun.

  Rock tradition
  American spirit was alive and well at the Alexander Wang and Anna Sui shows. All-American red, white and blue colors were combined with structure, stripes and fun.

  Add a touch of timeless tradition to an outdoor space with classic stripes and bold colors offered from the Sunbrella® Mayfield Collection®. Cool, deep tones contrasted with light neutrals create the ideal Americana look. Learn more.

  Sponsored by Tri Vantage.

  Learn more...