13/10/2025 – Karl Mayer at ITMA Asia — auf Deutsch lesen
Seersucker reinvented: 3D bubble tech
Karl Mayer unveils innovative seersucker WARP KNITS with three-dimensional bubble effects at ITMA Asia. The new 4-bar tricot machine enables sweeping zigzag patterns and brings entirely new dimensions to the trending seersucker segment.
Innovation meets textile tradition
Seersucker fabrics have long been icons of the clothing industry and proven success drivers for manufacturers. Just in time for ITMA Asia + CITME 2025, Karl Mayer's textile product developers have achieved a breakthrough with warp knit variants featuring unique bubble effects. These innovations inject extra dynamism into textile surfaces while creating fresh momentum in the market.
Advanced machine technology enables breakthrough
The innovation is made possible by a new 4-bar tricot machine that fully exploits the advantages of its 2" shogging line. The patterning follows established principles: while GB 3 and GB 4 create the fabric ground structure, GB 1 and GB 2 process a specialised core yarn consisting of an elastane core with polyamide covering. The polyamide protects the core from wear and optimizes dyeing performance.
Novel processing creates dimensional effects
The decisive breakthrough lies in processing the core yarn in long underlaps, enabling sweeping, overlapping curved zigzag patterns. The intersections of these wavy lines mark the corners of large diamonds that are pulled together by elasticity, creating distinctive bubble-like formations on the fabric surface.
Market potential through versatility
The result is a dynamic structural look with exceptional three-dimensional character. A multifilament yarn ensures soft hand feel, while specialised texturing accommodates the elastane's stretch behaviour. Fashion prints can further enhance the 3D structures, adding fuel to the seersucker trend.
Demonstration at trade fair
The innovation demonstrates how established textile technologies can unlock new market opportunities through targeted development. Four different patterns and design sequences will be showcased on the trade fair floor, offering visitors comprehensive insights into the technology's potential.
The technology will be demonstrated at ITMA Asia + CITME 2025 at Karl Mayer booth A 301 in Hall 5 of Singapore EXPO.