Beth Ranson reports

Shima Seiki’s high-tech flat knitting machines are programmed via the company’s ‘SDS-ONE Apex Series’ software, which designers also use to design and develop knitwear. Until now designers had to have access to an actual SDS-ONE Apex design system – accessing the design element of the software remotely just wasn’t possible.

Today, Shima Seiki launches its first subscription-based software, Apex Fiz– a platform created in response to the shifting work patterns induced by the global pandemic. Access for designers to design tools at remote locations is now possible.

Without the ability to travel, and with trade shows and yarn fairs cancelled, designers have been unable to make the necessary trips to view yarn innovations and collections with the tactility they so crucially need.

Whilst shade cards can still be requested from spinners, the waste produced by ordering shade cards that end up being surplus to requirement – not to mention the vast amounts of space needed to store them whilst working from home- means designers have far less access to yarn and trend inspiration. Combine this with the delays many factories are facing in sampling lead times, and the result is a severe lack of access to yarn and fabrics to integrate into designed collections.

Read the full story on Knitting Industry Creative