Straps That Stand Out: A Guide to Different Webbing Styles for Bags
Webbing isn't just for backpacks anymore! It's a versatile and stylish material that can add a touch of personality to any bag, from totes to crossbody messenger bags. But with so many webbing styles to choose from, how do you pick the right one for your project?
This guide will break down the most popular webbing types and their uses:
Material Matters:
Nylon: Super strong and water-resistant, perfect for everyday bags and backpacks that see a lot of wear and tear.
Polyester: Similar to nylon in strength, but often comes in a wider variety of colors and prints. Great for adding a pop of personality to your bag.
Cotton: Offers a natural, soft feel and comes in a variety of colors. Not quite as strong as nylon or polyester, but a good choice for lighter-weight bags.
Polypropylene: Known for being lightweight and affordable. It's not the strongest webbing option, but a good choice for tote bags or other bags that won't be carrying a heavy load.
Weave Power:
Standard: The classic flat weave, perfect for everyday bag straps and handles.
Grosgrain: A ribbed weave that adds a touch of elegance. Great for bag handles and decorative trims.
Jacquard: This weave allows for intricate designs and patterns to be woven directly into the webbing, perfect for creating a unique statement piece.
Finding the Perfect Match:
Consider the following when choosing your webbing:
The style of your bag: A chunky backpack might benefit from a wider, sturdier nylon strap, while a delicate clutch purse might call for a thinner cotton or patterned webbing.
Weight capacity: If you plan on carrying a lot of stuff, choose a strong webbing material like nylon or polyester.
Aesthetics: Don't forget about the look! Consider the color, pattern, and texture of the webbing and how it will complement the overall design of your bag.
Bonus Tip: Webbing can be easily sewn or glued into place, making it a great option for even beginner bag-makers.
With a little planning, you can use webbing to create beautiful, functional, and unique bags that will turn heads wherever you go. So get creative, have fun, and get webbing!
Webbing: What you need to know.
The Wonderful World of Webbing: A Guide to Different Types and Their Uses
Webbing: it's a humble yet essential material that finds its way into countless applications, from outdoor gear to furniture to pet leashes. But with so many different types of webbing available, it can be tough to know which one is right for your project. Fear not, fellow crafters and DIY enthusiasts! This blog post is your one-stop guide to the wonderful world of webbing.
First things first: What is webbing?
Webbing is a flat, woven fabric that's typically made from synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, or polypropylene. It's strong, durable, and resistant to moisture and abrasion, making it perfect for a wide range of tasks.
Now, let's dive into the different types of webbing:
Nylon webbing: This is the most common type of webbing, and for good reason. It's strong, lightweight, and abrasion-resistant, making it ideal for outdoor gear like backpacks, harnesses, and cargo straps.
Polyester webbing: Polyester webbing is similar to nylon webbing, but it's slightly less strong and more stretchy. This makes it a good choice for applications where flexibility is important, like seat belts and pet leashes.
Polypropylene webbing: Polypropylene webbing is the most affordable type of webbing, but it's also the least strong. It's a good choice for lightweight applications where strength isn't a major concern, like tote bags and decorative trim.
Cotton webbing: Cotton webbing is a natural alternative to synthetic webbing. It's soft, breathable, and comfortable to wear, making it a good choice for applications like clothing and handbags. However, cotton webbing is not as strong as synthetic webbing and is more susceptible to moisture and mildew.
Heavy-duty webbing: Heavy-duty webbing is designed for applications where extreme strength is required, such as towing straps and tie-downs. It's typically made from thick, high-tenacity nylon or polyester fibers.
Reflective webbing: Reflective webbing is embedded with reflective material that makes it visible in low-light conditions. This type of webbing is often used for safety applications, such as on running gear and dog leashes.
In addition to the material, webbing also comes in a variety of widths and thicknesses. The width of the webbing you choose will depend on the application. For example, you'll need a wider webbing for a backpack strap than you would for a dog leash. The thickness of the webbing will determine its strength and weight capacity.
Once you've chosen the right type of webbing, it's time to get creative! Webbing can be used for a variety of projects:
Backpack straps or tote bag handles
Custom dog leash or collar
Weaving a decorative wall hanging
Repairs for a torn tent or sleeping bag
With a little imagination, the possibilities are endless!
So next time you have a design idea, don't pass by the webbing section without giving it a second look. This versatile material can be used to create everything from the practical to the beautiful. With the right type of webbing, you can tackle any project with confidence.
I hope this blog post has helped you learn more about the different types of webbing and their uses. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Sail Thickness
Here at ATS we used a lot of sail to make unique products but did you know that sails have different thicknesses? Here is a little more about the different thicknesses of sails:
Sails are an essential part of any sailboat. They are what propel the boat through the water, and they come in a variety of thicknesses to suit different purposes.
The thickness of a sail is typically measured in ounces per square yard (oz/yd²). The higher the oz/yd², the thicker the sail. Thicker sails are more durable and can withstand more wind, but they are also heavier and more difficult to handle. Lighter sails are easier to handle and can be used in light winds, but they are not as durable and may not be able to withstand heavy winds.
There are three main types of sails:
Mainsails: The mainsail is the largest sail on a boat. It is typically made of a heavier material than the other sails, and it is used to provide the main source of propulsion.
Jibs: Jibs are sails that are located in the front of the boat. They are typically made of a lighter material than the mainsail, and they are used to help the boat point upwind.
Spinnakers: Spinnakers are sails that are used in downwind sailing. They are typically made of a very light material, and they are used to catch as much wind as possible to propel the boat forward.
The thickness of a sail will also vary depending on the type of boat it is being used on. For example, a racing sailboat will typically have thicker sails than a cruising sailboat. This is because racing sailboats need to be able to withstand more wind and stress.
Here is a table of the most common sail thicknesses and their uses:
Sail Type Thickness (oz/yd²) Use
Mainsail 6-10 Heavy-duty sailing
Jib 4-6 Lighter-duty sailing
Spinnaker 0.5-2 Downwind sailing
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right thickness of sail for your boat is to consult with a sailmaker. They will be able to assess your needs and recommend the best sail for your boat.
Additional Considerations
In addition to thickness, there are a few other factors to consider when choosing a sail, such as:
Material: Sails are typically made from a variety of materials, such as Dacron, nylon, and polyester. Each material has its own strengths and weaknesses.
Construction: Sails can be constructed in a variety of ways, such as radial, cross-cut, and tri-radial. Each construction method has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Cost: Sails can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of a sail will depend on the size, material, construction, and other factors.
Box stitch vs. bar tack stitch: Which one is right for you?
When it comes to sewing, there are many different stitches that you can use, each with its own purpose and strengths. Two of the most common stitches for reinforcing seams and areas of stress are the box stitch and the bar tack stitch.
But what is the difference between these two stitches, and which one should you use?
Box stitch
A box stitch is a series of cross stitches that are sewn in a square or rectangular pattern. It is a strong and durable stitch that is often used to reinforce seams in heavy-duty fabrics, such as leather, canvas, and denim. Box stitches are also commonly used to attach straps, handles, and other attachments to garments and bags.
Bar tack stitch
A bar tack stitch is a series of zig-zag stitches that are sewn back and forth over each other in a straight line. It is also a strong and durable stitch, but it is not as bulky as a box stitch. Bar tack stitches are often used to reinforce areas of stress in garments and bags, such as belt loops, pocket corners, and strap attachments.
Which stitch to use?
The best stitch to use for a particular application will depend on the type of fabric you are using and the amount of stress that the area will be under.
If you are working with a heavy-duty fabric and the area will be under a lot of stress, then a box stitch is the best option. Box stitches are stronger and more durable than bar tack stitches, but they are also more bulky.
If you are working with a lighter fabric or the area will not be under as much stress, then a bar tack stitch is a good option. Bar tack stitches are less bulky and more flexible than box stitches, but they are not as strong or durable.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between box stitches and bar tack stitches:
Characteristic Box stitch Bar tack stitch
Strength Stronger Less strong
Durability More durable Less durable
Bulk More bulky Less bulky
Flexibility Less flexible More flexible
Best for Heavy-duty fabrics, areas of high stress Lighter fabrics, areas of less stress
Conclusion
Both box stitches and bar tack stitches are strong and durable stitches that can be used to reinforce seams and areas of stress in garments and bags. The best stitch to use for a particular application will depend on the type of fabric you are using and the amount of stress that the area will be under.
Singer sewing machines: A history of innovation and style
Here at ATS Manufacturing, one of our primary tools are various Singer sewing machines. Below is a short history of these incredible Machines:
Singer sewing machines have been a household name for over 170 years. The company was founded in 1851 by Isaac Merritt Singer, an American inventor who revolutionized the sewing industry with his practical and affordable sewing machines.
Singer's first sewing machine was a significant improvement over previous designs. It was faster, easier to use, and more durable. Singer also introduced a number of innovative features, such as the foot treadle, which allowed sewers to use both hands to guide the fabric.
Singer sewing machines quickly became popular, and the company soon became the world's leading manufacturer of sewing machines. Singer machines were used to make everything from clothing and quilts to shoes and tents. They were also used in factories to produce goods on a mass scale.
Singer sewing machines were not only practical, but they were also stylish. The company's early machines were made of cast iron and decorated with intricate designs. Later models were made of lighter materials and featured more streamlined designs.
In the early 1900s, Singer began to offer electric sewing machines. These machines were more expensive than hand-powered machines, but they were also faster and easier to use. Electric sewing machines quickly became popular, and Singer continued to lead the way in sewing machine innovation.
Today, Singer sewing machines are still one of the most popular brands in the world. Singer offers a wide range of sewing machines for all levels of experience, from beginners to professionals. Singer machines are known for their durability, reliability, and ease of use.
Here are some notable milestones in the history of Singer sewing machines:
1851: Isaac Merritt Singer patents his first sewing machine.
1855: Singer wins first prize at the Paris World's Fair for its sewing machines.
1863: Singer opens its first large factory in Elizabeth, New Jersey.
1870: Singer introduces its iconic "Red S" trademark.
1895: Singer introduces its first electric sewing machine.
1910: Singer opens its first sewing machine showroom in New York City.
1927: Singer introduces its first zigzag sewing machine.
1950: Singer introduces its first portable sewing machine.
1963: Singer changes its name from Singer Manufacturing Company to The Singer Company.
1970: Singer introduces its first computerized sewing machine.
1980: Singer introduces its first quilting machine.
2000: Singer introduces its first embroidery machine.
Singer sewing machines have played an important role in history. They have helped to revolutionize the clothing industry, make sewing more accessible to people of all income levels, and inspire creativity and self-expression. Singer sewing machines are still a popular choice for sewers of all levels of experience today.
Manufacturing's homecoming: A new era of American production
Manufacturing's homecoming: A new era of American production
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of manufacturing returning to the United States. This trend is being driven by a number of factors, including:
Rising labor costs in emerging markets. As wages have increased in countries like China and Mexico, the cost advantage of manufacturing there has diminished.
Concerns about supply chain disruptions. The COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing war in Ukraine have highlighted the risks of relying on overseas suppliers.
Government policies that support reshoring. The Biden administration has implemented a number of initiatives to encourage manufacturing in the United States, such as the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act.
Consumer demand for American-made products. A growing number of consumers are willing to pay more for products that are made in the United States.
The return of manufacturing to the United States is a positive development for the economy. It creates jobs, strengthens the supply chain, and reduces reliance on foreign imports. It also contributes to innovation, as companies are forced to develop new technologies and processes to compete with global rivals.
Here are some specific examples of manufacturing returning to the United States:
Intel is building a $20 billion semiconductor factory in Ohio.
Samsung is building a $17 billion semiconductor factory in Texas.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is building a $12 billion semiconductor factory in Arizona.
General Motors is investing $2.2 billion to expand its battery production in the United States.
Ford is investing $11.4 billion to build two new electric vehicle battery factories in Kentucky and Tennessee.
Reshoring Initiative estimates that 350,000 manufacturing jobs have returned to the United States since 2010.
The return of manufacturing to the United States is still in its early stages. However, the trend is clear: manufacturing is coming home. This is a positive development for the economy, the environment, and national security.
Here are some of the benefits of manufacturing returning to the United States:
Job creation. Manufacturing is a high-wage sector, and it creates good jobs for Americans.
Supply chain security. Reducing reliance on foreign suppliers makes the U.S. economy more resilient to disruptions.
Innovation. Manufacturing companies are constantly innovating to improve their products and processes. This innovation benefits the entire economy.
Environmental benefits. Manufacturing in the United States can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.
National security. A strong manufacturing sector is essential for national security.
The return of manufacturing to the United States is a welcome development. It is a sign that the U.S. economy is becoming more competitive and resilient. It is also a sign that the United States is committed to its future as a manufacturing powerhouse.
The government can continue to support the return of manufacturing by:
Investing in education and training. The United States needs a workforce that is skilled in the latest manufacturing technologies.
Providing tax breaks and other incentives to companies that reshore manufacturing jobs.
Supporting research and development in advanced manufacturing technologies.
Enforcing trade laws to protect American manufacturers from unfair competition.
The return of manufacturing to the United States is a long-term trend. It will take time, effort, and commitment to make it a reality. However, the benefits of reshoring are clear. By working together, we can create a future where American manufacturing is once again a source of pride and prosperity.
We here at ATS Manufacturing continue the tradition of nearly 50 years of Manufacturing in the US and are proud to label our products “AMERICAN MADE”
Holyoke an Industrial Power
Holyoke, Massachusetts is a city located in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts. It is known for its history of manufacturing, which began in the early 19th century.
The city's location on the Connecticut River made it ideal for manufacturing. The river provided a source of water power, and the surrounding hills provided a source of raw materials, such as timber and iron ore.
The first major industry in Holyoke was textiles. The first textile mill was built in 1833, and by the 1850s, Holyoke was a major center for textile manufacturing. The city was also home to a number of other industries, including papermaking, machine tools, and firearms.
The peak of manufacturing in Holyoke was in the early 20th century. At that time, the city was home to over 100 factories and employed over 20,000 people. However, the decline of manufacturing began in the mid-20th century, as businesses began to move to other parts of the country in search of cheaper labor.
Today, manufacturing is still a major part of the economy in Holyoke, but it is not as dominant as it once was. The city is now home to a number of smaller manufacturing businesses, as well as a number of businesses that provide services to the manufacturing industry.
Despite the decline of manufacturing, Holyoke has a rich history of manufacturing. The city's many historic mills and factories are a testament to its past, and they continue to play an important role in the city's economy and culture.
Here are some of the most notable manufacturing industries in Holyoke's history:
Textiles: The textile industry was the first major industry in Holyoke, and it remained a major force in the city's economy for over a century. The city was home to a number of textile mills, including the American Manufacturing Company, which was one of the largest textile mills in the world.
Papermaking: The papermaking industry began in Holyoke in the mid-19th century, and it grew to become one of the city's largest industries. The city was home to a number of paper mills, including the American Writing Paper Company, which was one of the largest paper mills in the world.
Machine tools: The machine tool industry began in Holyoke in the late 19th century, and it grew to become one of the city's most important industries. The city was home to a number of machine tool manufacturers, including the Brown & Sharpe Manufacturing Company, which was one of the leading machine tool manufacturers in the world.
Firearms: The firearms industry began in Holyoke in the early 20th century, and it grew to become one of the city's most important industries. The city was home to a number of firearms manufacturers, including the Smith & Wesson Company, which is one of the leading firearms manufacturers in the world.
The history of manufacturing in Holyoke is a rich and complex one. The city's many historic mills and factories are a testament to its past, and they continue to play an important role in the city's economy and culture. Here at ATS we are trying to bring back Holyoke back to the manufacturing juggernaut it once was. As we like to say “American manufacturing is not dead!”
Who we are and what we do
Are you a small business owner looking to bring your product to market? Or are you a larger company looking to outsource your sewing and manufacturing needs? If so, then you need to check out ATS Manufacturing. We are a full-service contract sewing company that also provides light manufacturing work and fulfilment services.
What We Do:
We have over 50 years of experience in the sewing and manufacturing industry. We have a team of skilled sewers and garment makers who can handle any project, big or small. We also have a state-of-the-art facility that is equipped with all the latest sewing machines and equipment.
In addition to contract sewing, we also offer a variety of light manufacturing services. We can help you with everything from light assembley to packaging and labelling. We also offer fulfilment services, so we can take care of shipping and delivery for you.
Why Choose Us:
There are many reasons why you should chooseATS Manufacturing for your sewing, manufacturing, and fulfilment needs. Here are just a few:
We have a proven track record of success. We have worked with a wide range of clients, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies.
We offer high-quality products and services. We use only the finest materials and workmanship.
We are flexible and responsive. We are able to accommodate your specific needs and requirements.
We are cost-competitive. We offer competitive prices without sacrificing quality.
Contact Us:
If you are interested in learning more about ATS Manufacturing or our services, please contact us today. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help you get started on your project.
Call to Action:
Visit our website today to learn more about our services and to get a quote. We look forward to working with you!