SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. and its Italian subsidiary SHIMA SEIKI ITALIA S.p.A. will participate in Techtextil 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany, showcasing next-generation 3D knitting technologies, digital design tools, and sustainable textile production solutions.
The exhibition will highlight how WHOLEGARMENT® knitting and advanced machine systems are transforming technical textiles, medical applications, automotive materials, and industrial production.
What Will SHIMA SEIKI Showcase at Techtextil 2026?
SHIMA SEIKI will present:
- WHOLEGARMENT® seamless 3D knitting technology
- Advanced flat knitting and shaping machines
- Digital design and knitting software solutions
- Sustainable, waste-reducing textile production systems
These innovations focus on efficiency, customization, and zero-waste manufacturing.
WHOLEGARMENT® 3D Knitting Technology
At the core of SHIMA SEIKI’s exhibition is its revolutionary WHOLEGARMENT® knitting technology, which produces complete garments in a single 3D process without sewing or linking.
Key Benefits:
- No material waste during production
- Seamless construction for improved comfort
- Reduced manufacturing time and cost
- Ideal for medical, industrial, and technical textiles
Unlike traditional methods that cut fabric from 2D sheets, WHOLEGARMENT® creates fully shaped products directly from yarn—making it a highly sustainable manufacturing alternative.
SWG®-XR High-Performance Knitting Machine
The SWG®-XR WHOLEGARMENT® machine features:
- 4 needle beds
- SHIMA SEIKI’s patented SlideNeedle™ technology
- High-speed fine gauge production
- Expanded patterning capabilities
This system enables production of complex, high-quality 3D knitted structures suitable for both apparel and advanced technical applications.
Expanding Applications in Technical Textiles
SHIMA SEIKI is expanding WHOLEGARMENT® technology beyond fashion into:
- Medical textiles (custom patient care items)
- Automotive components
- Sports and performance materials
- Industrial textile applications
Its ability to produce seamless, customized, on-demand products makes it especially valuable in healthcare, where precision and comfort are critical.
SES®-R Next-Generation Shaping Machine
The SES®-R knitting machine introduces a new spring-type movable sinker system, enabling:
- Enhanced 3D shaping capability
- Improved inverse plating and inlay knitting
- Efficient production of complex textile patterns
At Techtextil 2026, it will be demonstrated in:
- 14 gauge configuration
- 52-inch (132 cm) knitting width
This allows production of larger and more advanced textile structures for industrial use.
Digital Transformation with APEXFiz® and SDS® KnitPaint-Online
SHIMA SEIKI will also demonstrate its powerful digital ecosystem:
APEXFiz® Design Software
APEXFiz® Design Software- 3D virtual sampling
- Realistic textile simulation
- End-to-end product development
SDS® KnitPaint-Online
- Knitting data programming
- Machine-ready file conversion
- Seamless integration with production systems
Key Advantages:
- Eliminates physical sampling waste
- Reduces production time and cost
- Improves sustainability
- Bridges design and manufacturing digitally
Sustainable Textile Manufacturing Through Digital Innovation
By combining 3D knitting technology with digital design platforms, SHIMA SEIKI enables:
- Reduced material waste
- On-demand production models
- Efficient supply chain integration
- Lower environmental impact
This approach supports the global shift toward sustainable and intelligent textile manufacturing.
Why Visit SHIMA SEIKI at Techtextil 2026?
Messe Frankfurt provides the global stage for innovation, where SHIMA SEIKI will demonstrate how:
- 3D knitting is reshaping industrial textiles
- Digital tools reduce waste and improve efficiency
- Customization is becoming the new manufacturing standard
Visitors can explore live demonstrations and next-generation textile solutions at the event.
What is WHOLEGARMENT® Knitting? (Featured Snippet Answer)
WHOLEGARMENT® is a seamless 3D knitting technology that produces complete garments or textile products in a single process without cutting or sewing, reducing waste and improving efficiency.
Key Innovations by SHIMA SEIKI at Techtextil 2026
- WHOLEGARMENT® seamless knitting technology
- SWG®-XR high-performance knitting machine
- SES®-R advanced shaping system
- APEXFiz® 3D design software
- SDS® KnitPaint-Online production software
FAQs
What is SHIMA SEIKI known for?
SHIMA SEIKI is known for advanced computerized flat knitting machines and WHOLEGARMENT® seamless knitting technology.
What industries use WHOLEGARMENT® technology?
It is used in fashion, medical textiles, automotive components, sportswear, and industrial applications.
What is SES®-R used for?
SES®-R is used for advanced 3D shaping in knitting, enabling complex textile designs for multiple industries.
How does SHIMA SEIKI support sustainability?
Through zero-waste knitting, digital sampling, and automated production workflows that reduce material usage and emissions.
Discover SHIMA SEIKI Showcases “SHIMA SEIKI Reborn” at ITMA ASIA + CITME 2025 in Singapore