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Updated regularly, the Trivantage Market Corner Blog spotlights new products, industry updates, and growth opportunities for you and your business.
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We enjoyed seeing so many of you at Advanced Textiles Expo in Orlando earlier this month. Thank you for taking the time to visit the Trivantage® booth, meet with our team, and share updates on your projects and insights from your customers. We appreciate the opportunity to partner with you every step of the way as you bring your customers’ visions to life.
If you were not able to attend ATE, make sure you check out the latest new products and services from Trivantage, including:
We also demonstrated Awning Composer®, an easy-to-use rendering software designed to move products to production in half the time, and shared real-time show floor highlights on our social channels: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Be sure to check out our Revival Blue, and give us a follow on all of our channels so you won’t miss the latest news and information on project applications, fabricator experiences, and more.
On behalf of everyone at Trivantage, thank you for your partnership. We hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season.
We were thrilled to join Serge Ferrari Group at their booth at Advanced Textiles Expo for a champagne toast on the debut of a new custom anniversary color for their best-selling exterior solar protection fabric. To celebrate 25 years of Soltis® Proof 502, this industry-leading waterproof membrane fabric is now available in Revival Blue.
“Trivantage® values the partnerships we share with our customers and appreciates the opportunity to serve them in ways that bring us closer together – and partnership is key to why we are so proud to partner with Serge Ferrari on this new custom color,” Bret Kelley, vice president of sales, said in toasting the color with Ilse Beterams, vice president, North America for Serge Ferrari.
“As our friends at Serge Ferrari noted, Revival Blue relates to the trends we are now seeing in urban renewal and with the revival of fabrics within the awning industry,” Kelley added. “Fabrics provide versatility in design options, and as our urban areas continue to grow, urban design must do the same. Revival Blue represents evolution and adaptation, and Trivantage is quite proud to be the exclusive distributor of this new color.”
Soltis Proof 502 is a waterproof, durable, lightweight, and easy-to-clean fabric that delivers superior flexibility and strength to allow creative freedom of shape and size for various outdoor applications. This cutting-edge fabric is ideal for awnings, pergolas, shade sails, light structures, and fixed shading systems. Trivantage is the exclusive provider of Revival Blue.
Count on Soltis Proof 502 for a desirable satin finish and a PVDF coating on each side for long-term dirt resistance. Offered in 40 total colors, including the new Revival Blue, the fabric is backed by a 10-year warranty from this leader in designing, developing, and manufacturing innovative composite fabrics.
Click here for more information on Soltis Proof 502. You can also contact your Trivantage sales representative or call us at 800-786-1876.
We could not be prouder to share that Steve Ellington, who is retiring in January after a 41-year career at Glen Raven, including more than 15 years as president of Trivantage®, was honored with the Chairman’s Award at ATA’s annual meeting during Advanced Textiles Expo. Steve was not expecting the award, which made the surprise ceremony even more special for those of us who have been honored to be a part of this industry legend’s team.
Steve has made a significant contribution to the growth of Glen Raven’s global business since joining the company in 1983. He served as president and general manager of Glen Raven Custom Fabrics – Global and was instrumental in the acquisition of Dickson-Constant, which established Glen Raven as a global company. He was also instrumental in forming Trivantage, one of Glen Raven’s largest global subsidiaries, and has led our company since its founding in 2008. Steve also has served on ATA’s board of directors and is a former board chair, and in 2022 he was recognized as an Honored Life Member of ATA for his distinguished contribution to the textile industry.
The Chairman’s Award, formerly called the President’s Award of Merit, is only given when the ATA chairman of the board feels there is an individual worthy of special recognition for their unique contribution to the industry. Previous recipients of this prestigious industry award include Allen Gant, Jr., former CEO of Glen Raven, and Roger Gant, Jr., also a former Glen Raven CEO who led the team that created Sunbrella®. Perfect company indeed.
We also demonstrated Awning Composer®, an easy-to-use rendering software designed to move products to production in half the time, and shared real-time show floor highlights on our social channels: Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Be sure to check out our Revival Blue, and give us a follow on all of our channels so you won’t miss the latest news and information on project applications, fabricator experiences, and more.
In a recent interview for Glen Raven’s customer magazine, Raven, Steve was asked what’s next for him in 2024 and beyond. His answer indicates he won’t be going far:
“In the short term, I’ll unplug, relax, and refocus. Longer term, I suspect I’ll remain involved in an industry that has been so good to me. Once textiles are in your blood, they become part of who you are. I don’t see that changing.”
Cheers to our mentor and friend!
The debate between water-based and solvent-based cleaners is as old as the products themselves. But, which type of cleaning product is best for you? Below, we’ll explain the similarities, differences, and distinct performance properties of each to help you make the best decision for your next cleaning project.
Water is the primary component of water-based cleaners. For the most part, they’re used for everyday cleaning tasks and are much more environmentally friendly compared to solvent-based cleaners.
In case you’re wondering where to find the best water based cleaners, you won’t have to look far. Some of the most popular types include all-purpose cleaners, carpet cleaners, floor cleaners, dishwashing liquids, upholstery cleaners, and more.
Similar to water-based paint, water-based cleaners don’t just consist of plain water by itself. Rather, their make up usually includes a mix of water, detergents, pigments and specific additives. Though, the exact ingredients depend on the individual products and their manufacturers.
One of the most significant advantages of water-based cleaners is their lack of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). In chemistry, the term “volatile” refers to a substance that can vaporize at low temperatures, allowing dangerous particles to evaporate into the surrounding air.
The lack of VOCs makes water-based solutions a preferred choice in environments where air quality is a concern or if cleaning must take place in an area that is not well ventilated. This helps to ensure users aren’t exposed to potentially harmful chemicals.
A solvent is the main active ingredient of a solvent-based solution. But what is a solvent? Generally speaking, a solvent is a substance that can dissolve another substance. There are many types of solvents defined & differentiated by their chemical structures, specifically the presence or absence of carbon-hydrogen (C-H) bonds.
If you’re dealing with tough, stubborn, greasy, and oily residue, solvent-based cleaners are typically the most efficient solution for the task.
Solvent-based cleaners usually have ingredients like solvent paints, alkyds, urethanes, and epoxies. Due to these properties, these solutions typically have higher levels of VOCs in comparison to their water-based counterparts.
In many cases, this makes them highly effective (in certain situations) while simultaneously making them more potentially dangerous. This is why experts recommend caution and adequate ventilation when using them.
Both of these cleaners can get the job done, but they’re generally used under different circumstances. Further, a person might choose to use a water based cleaner over a solvent-based solution due to their health, their animals, and environmental concerns.
Generally, here are some key differences between the two types of products:
Choosing the right type of cleaner all comes down to the project itself. Some situations are more suited to water-based cleaners, while others require solvent-based solutions. Let’s take a look at when each type is most beneficial.
For starters, if you have environmental or health concerns, water-based cleaners might always be your go to option. Water-based cleaners are typically best in scenarios where:
Trivantage offers cutting-edge, water-based cleaner technology like Sunbrella® Clean™ Multi-Purpose Fabric Cleaner, ideal for everyday dirt & grime while helping to maintain the look, feel, and features of Sunbrella fabric.
For starters, if you have environmental or health concerns, water-based cleaners might always be your go to option. Water-based cleaners are typically best in scenarios where:
Trivantage is stocked with a variety of highly-effective, solvent-based cleaners including Sunbrella Extract™ Oil Based Stain Remover, a fantastic choice for removing tough, set-in oil-based stains from Sunbrella fabric. 303® Multi-Surface Cleaner is another tried-and-true, solvent-based product trusted to clean virtually any water-safe fabric & rinse free of residue.
In the wide and ever-changing world of cleaning agents, your choice between water-based and solvent-based cleaners usually depends on the task at hand. When you have a clear understanding of the type of stain, surface, and ideal outcome, it’ll be easy to decide which is best for you. Though, you should be sure to always stick to manufacturer guidelines and keep environmental considerations at the top of mind.
Want to learn more about choosing the right cleaners and protectants? Check out our comprehensive cleaning guide today!
When it comes to upholstery, your choice of adhesive (i.e., type, brand, ingredients, etc.) can be the difference between a beautiful finished product and a nightmare.
That said, with so many options available, it’s important to have an understanding of the different types of adhesives, their applications, and what makes the best ones stand out.
Artistry, skill, the type of fabric, and the adhesive you use all play a critical role in the finished product. Whether you’re interested in securing a long-lasting bond or maintaining the quality of the fabric, the adhesive you work with has a lot of implications.
We've broken down the most commonly used types in upholstery and their applications to help you navigate the world of adhesives. Generally, the most common types include:
The term “adhesive” encompasses all types of substances and materials used for bonding. Glues come in liquid or gel form and are applied directly to material surfaces. Materials are then joined while the glue is still wet, creating a bond during the drying or curing process.
Adhesive fabric tapes come in a variety of materials, colors, and bond longevity. Some are ideal for temporary bonds while other adhesive fabric tape options offer a permanent bonding solution. Adhesive fabric tape bonds are virtually immediate and rarely require drying or curing. Be sure to double check product details while shopping for adhesive fabric tapes as non-adhesive fabric strips are also often referred to as “fabric tape”.
Vinyl cement is specially formulated for bonding vinyl materials together and creates a strong, flexible bond at the chemical level. Contact adhesives, sometimes referred to as contact cement, are versatile and can create strong, durable bonds between a wide range of materials. Both of these adhesive types must be applied to both material surfaces and allowed to dry before joining for an extra strong bond.
It’s not easy to bond one fabric to another. However, fabric glues are specifically designed for bonding fabrics. They’re washable and even remain flexible after drying.
Before you select an adhesive tape, it’s important to understand its function and limitations to avoid a bad outcome. Generally, the best type of adhesive tape for your project depends on the materials you are bonding, how long it needs to last, the project’s final use purpose, and many other factors.
Vinyl Cement, as the name suggests, is engineered for use on vinyl materials, dries quickly, and creates a long-lasting bond. Ideal for marine applications, vinyl cement is waterproof, flexible, and can withstand extreme temperatures.
Contact adhesives are known for their high strength and durability. What makes them stand out is they allow for initial adjustments and then bond instantly upon contact.
Before you buy an adhesive for fabric or vinyl, you’ll need to consider bond-strength, water-resistance, type of materials you’re bonding (i.e., suede, silicone, concrete, etc.), and many other factors. Need help figuring out which solution is best for your project? We’re here to help, every day, every step of the way.
Check out our selection of fabric adhesives and tapes today.
For more than 75 years, O.W. Lee has designed and produced handcrafted outdoor furniture for homes across the country. We spoke with Leisa McCollister, vice president of marketing, to learn more about the company’s historic partnership with Glen Raven and Trivantage® as a supplier.
“We’ve been sourcing Sunbrella® fabrics through Glen Raven, and now Trivantage, for a long time,” McCollister said. “We like to purchase Sunbrella because of its strong name recognition and quality, and we can rely on Trivantage to stand behind the product warranty.”
McCollister considers Trivantage both a supplier and partner, especially when it comes to specified orders.
“Trivantage allows us to purchase fabric by the yard which is tremendously helpful when we’re working on a custom project,” she said, noting that her team can trust Trivantage to provide on-time delivery and supply high-quality products.
For Trivantage orders, McCollister works with decorative fabrics sales representative, Audrey Martinez. “Audrey is fantastic,” she said. “She introduced us to a thread that allowed us to extend the warranty on our furniture.”
Be sure to contact your sales representative and share your story with us and we may include it in a future Market Corner. From project details and feedback from your customers to superior service from Trivantage, we would welcome an opportunity to share your story on our channels. You can also share details by calling us at 800-786-1876.
We look forward to hearing from you!
It’s almost go time: We are mere days away from seeing you at Booth #1327 at ATA Expo on Nov. 1-3 in Orlando. If you haven’t already reserved your spot at the flagship show for the industrial textile industry, Trivantage® has you covered.
When registering, apply code EX23VIPTRI for a free Show Floor Registration or code EX22TENTRI for 10% off the All Access or Expo Plus Registration packages. Go to AdvancedTextilesExpo.com/Register now. The flagship show for the industrial textiles industry will be held Nov. 1-3 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida, and will include the latest innovations in technology and textiles, including from Trivantage®. We invite you to visit Booth #1327 and see for yourself how you can count on Trivantage as your primary provider for new and exclusive products and services.
When you visit us at Booth #1327, you will see for yourself the quality products and innovative solutions behind our game-changing marine, shade, and upholstery offerings, including:
While at the Expo, be sure to join our Campfire education session on digital printing at 3:30 p.m. on Nov. 1. Andrew Medley, our regional sales manager, will present a session on the Expo floor titled “Digital Printing: Unique Solution Offering That Differentiates.” If you know Andrew, you know his background in sales training makes him the perfect presenter to lead a discussion on how digital printing can propel business growth. The central tenant of his presentation – if you can imagine it, it can be printed – includes examples of how businesses of every size have deployed the technique with impressive results.
For agendas and details on the full Expo experience, click on ATA Expo. For real-time updates from Trivantage during the Expo, follow us at Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn – and be sure to tag us if you share your visit to our booth on your pages. We look forward to seeing you next week and learning how we can partner with you every step of the way.
See you at Booth #1327!
Your response to the news that we have created Trivantage Plus, a new membership program custom built for you, has been phenomenal. Thank you to everyone who signed up, and if you haven’t yet done so, we would welcome the opportunity to tell you about the exclusive membership advantages available through the program.
Trivantage Plus provides members with exclusive benefits and opportunities to support their competitive edge and provide additional peace of mind. Members enjoy flat-rate, same-day shipping on parcel orders (exclusions may apply), hundreds of year-round discounts on select Trivantage products and brands, special offers on equipment and software from leading industry partners, and much more.
When you visit us at Booth #1327, you will see for yourself the quality products and innovative solutions behind our game-changing marine, shade, and upholstery offerings, including:
If you are planning on attending ATA Expo next week in Orlando, be sure to stop by Booth #1327 and hear from our team firsthand how the Trivantage Plus membership program can strategically support your business. You’ll also learn how, as your one-stop shop for the supplies you need quickly and easily, Trivantage is here for you every step of the way.
In the meantime, sign into your account today and visit Trivantage.com/Plus to learn more about membership level details and lock in introductory pricing. You can also contact your sales representative or call us at 800-786-1876 for additional information about Trivantage Plus membership.
If you own a boat, then you are familiar with how harsh the environment can be, especially on your vinyl boat seats. White marine fabric, in particular, can easily discolor, collect grime, and show stains.
However, if you take care of your white boat upholstery and conduct regular maintenance, you can keep it looking brand new year after year. We’ll explain some easy ways to get started below.
Here are some critical tips to help you brighten your white marine fabric and keep it clean for every boating trip.
Perhaps the simplest way to keep your boat fabric white is to prevent stains from ever occurring. This can be accomplished by regularly wiping the fabric down after each boat trip. Just use a microfiber cloth to gently clean the upholstery. This will not only remove residual sunscreen and salt left from passengers, but it will also remedy other messes that can damage marine-grade vinyl over time.
For general cleaning, a mixture of dish soap (like Dawn) and water can be effective. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach directly on the vinyl, as they can cause discoloration. Instead, use a soft bristle brush to gently scrub away grime and then rinse with clean water. Always air dry the upholstery to prevent mildew build-up.
Mild soap and gentle wipe downs are okay for small stains or maintenance. However, when you encounter stubborn stains, we recommend using a proven marine vinyl cleaner or a DIY solution.
Products like Sunbrella® Extract™, IOSSO® water repellent spray, and other mildew stain removers are designed for deep cleaning marine vinyl without causing damage. However, we recommend testing the product on a small, inconspicuous area first before applying it to the entirety of your upholstery.
Did you know that prolonged exposure to UV rays can result in faded marine vinyl, awning fabric, and upholstery fabric? Using the right protectant can protect your outdoor fabrics from UV rays, the elements, and everyday wear and tear.
That’s why Aerospace protectant is a popular choice. Not only does it keep your boat in pristine condition, but it also protects your upholstery for the long term.
As the old adage goes, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” That said, it’s in the best interest of your boat’s fabric to consider the following preventative steps:
Taking these steps will help to increase the lifespan of your marine fabrics while lessening the need for deep cleaning.
There’s nothing worse than yellow boat fabric. For the most part, it comes from UV exposure or grime. There are many ways to address this problem, and in many cases, it’s recommended that you take one or more of the following steps:
Bleach is a very powerful chemical, which is why it’s not recommended for direct use on marine fabrics, as it can cause damages and permanent discoloration.
However, if it's necessary, then use a heavily diluted solution and rinse thoroughly afterward.
Restoring your boats vinyl fabric requires both cleaning and restoring at the same time:
Yes, a mix of equal parts white vinegar and water can remove mildew and light grime. That’s because the natural acidity of vinegar assists in the breakdown of stains without the need to resort to harsh chemicals. Though, you should remember to rinse the material thoroughly to eliminate any vinegar residue.
In the world of marine textiles, pleated marine vinyl is a type of upholstery fabric that offers boat enthusiasts a special blend of style, substance, and durability. Four of the top types of pleated marine vinyl are Causeway Roll-N-Pleat, Nassimi Seaquest, Sunbrella Horizon, and Nautolex Capitano.
Dive into the world of marine upholstery, and you’ll encounter some true giants. Let’s delve deeper into some of the top brands in the industry:
Roll-N-Pleat (i.e., quilted fabric) isn't just a fancy name in the world of marine vinyl. It's a symbol of high-quality design and craftsmanship. Not only is it functional, but it’s durable, UV resistant, and incredibly comfortable.
Roll-N-Pleat is the pinnacle of marine upholstery fabric. Its pleated design isn't just for show — it’s the backbone of its adaptability. Imagine a fabric that dances to the rhythm of waves, winds, and the unique contours of boat seats. That’s the magic of Roll-N-Pleat.
With the relentless sun, salty sprays, and the whims of the elements, marine life is hard to predict. But Roll-N-Pleat, with its abrasion resistance and cold crack resilience, stands undeterred. The pleats aren’t just about aesthetics — they promote better air circulation, ensuring mildew resistant properties.
Beyond resilience, Roll-N-Pleat is all about comfort. With a soft feel, Roll-N-Pleat fabric makes boat seats and other upholstered areas the epitome of relaxation.
Given its marine grade resilience, Poll-N-Pleat fabric is the go-to boat upholstery fabric to tackle everything from a gentle sea spray to the blazing sun. These are some of the most common ways the fabric is used by interior designers, upholsters, and more:
One of the best parts about the marine vinyl upholstery fabric options offered by Trivantage is that they’re easy to care for and clean. Plus, their antimicrobial resistance means they won’t succumb to the harsh elements of the sea. And if the fabric does get dirty, refer to our upholstery cleaning guide for tips.
With all the options, finding the right marine upholstery can be difficult, but with our Fabric Resource Center and the expert team at Trivantage, you’re always in seasoned hands. Our product selection boasts an array of marine fabric, foam backed options, and Roll-N-Pleat choices, including hidem gimp and welt fabrics.
With a commitment to offering the best selection of marine fabrics, we take the hassle out of finding the perfect, high-quality option for any project. Have questions? Contact us today for help with any fabric or hardware needs.
