The Machines Behind Modern Fashion
The clothing industry relies on a blend of traditional craftsmanship and advanced technology. In both the United States and Europe, manufacturers have developed specialized equipment that powers every stage of garment production—from fabric creation to finishing. Here’s a look at some of the top categories and the companies behind them.
Fabric Formation: Weaving & Knitting Machines
Europe is home to some of the world’s most renowned textile machinery makers.
- Itema (Italy) produces high-performance weaving machines, including rapier, air-jet, and projectile looms trusted by fashion houses and industrial fabric producers. Itema Weaving Machines
- Karl Mayer (Germany) is a global leader in warp knitting and warp preparation systems, offering machines that produce lace, stretch fabrics, and technical textiles. Karl Mayer Machines
- Mayer & Cie. (Germany) specializes in circular knitting machines, enabling the mass production of knitted fabrics used in everything from T-shirts to sportswear. Mayer & Cie. Knitting
Cutting & Patterning Systems
Precision cutting ensures efficiency and reduces fabric waste.
- Gerber Technology (USA), now part of Lectra, offers computer-aided design (CAD) and automated cutting systems that dominate apparel manufacturing in the U.S. Gerber Technology
- Lectra (France) provides advanced digital fabric cutting systems such as the Vector range, which integrates CAD with automated cutters to deliver speed and accuracy. Lectra Vector Cutting
- Zünd (Switzerland) manufactures modular digital cutting systems used across textiles, leather, and technical fabrics. Zünd Cutting Systems
Sewing & Assembly Equipment
Garment assembly remains a backbone of the industry, and U.S. and European companies continue to innovate.
- Juki America distributes industrial sewing machines widely used in the U.S., including lockstitch and overlock models for high-volume garment factories. Juki Sewing
- Pfaff Industrial (Germany) is recognized for heavy-duty sewing machines and automation solutions tailored for apparel and technical textiles. Pfaff Industrial Sewing
- Brother USA offers a range of industrial and semi-industrial machines for garment manufacturing, blending Japanese engineering with U.S. distribution. Brother Industrial Sewing
Printing & Decoration Technology
Apparel branding and customization often rely on advanced printing.
- Kornit Digital (Israel, with European/U.S. presence) delivers industrial direct-to-garment (DTG) printers that have become staples for fashion-on-demand businesses. Kornit Printers
- Stahls’ Hotronix (USA) is an American leader in heat press technology, offering auto-open and hover presses for vinyl transfer and sublimation. Hotronix Heat Press
- M&R Printing Equipment (USA) manufactures screen-printing presses, dryers, and finishing equipment for large-scale garment decoration. M&R Printing
Finishing & Pressing Equipment
The final step in garment manufacturing is pressing and finishing, ensuring clothes look polished before shipment.
- Reliable Corporation (Canada/USA presence) supplies professional steamers and rotary presses used across U.S. apparel production. Reliable Pressing Equipment
- Veit Group (Germany) is well known in Europe for ironing tables, steam generators, and tunnel finishers for high-end garment care. Veit Finishing Systems
Shaping the Future
U.S. and European manufacturers are increasingly integrating automation, robotics, and sustainability into clothing production. From Lectra’s digital twins that simulate garments before cutting, to Karl Mayer’s innovations in technical textiles, these companies are not only improving efficiency but also reducing waste. With growing demand for on-demand fashion and eco-friendly solutions, American and European equipment makers remain central to the future of global apparel manufacturing.