#Knitting & Hosiery

2026-06-04

TM WEFT, 270" – More width, more design freedom for the fashion world

New model from KARL MAYER impresses with higher output, expanded pattern options, and optimal alignment with the apparel market

TM WEFT weft-insertion system © 2026 KARL MAYER

KARL MAYER is expanding its successful TM WEFT series with an innovative model that opens up new possibilities, particularly in the fashion & apparel sectors. With a working width of 270", this new machine with weft-insertion not only offers significantly higher output than its narrower counterparts but is also specifically tailored to the demands of dynamic clothing market – particularly in China and Türkiye. A well-thought-out upgrade also ensures even greater design versatility.

More creative possibilities for stripes and textures

The focus of this advanced development was primarily on expanding pattern flexibility. The maximum threading in the weft-insertion system has been increased from 30 to 36 weft ends –thereby opening up significantly more scope for material selection, color schemes, and design development. This makes it possible to create large-scale geometric patterns consisting of dense and open stripes, as well as seersucker textures achieved through the strategic use of elastane.

The option to selectively stop the weft-insertion system offers additional design possibilities. This allows for the deliberate creation of gaps – such as functional openings or additional transparent stripes as design elements.

The multi-speed function allows for a targeted variation in stitch density, thereby creating an even stronger visual effect of alternating transparency and opacity. The stitch density can be flexibly adjusted within a range of 9 to 30 courses per centimeter.

By weft-inserting across the entire working width, it is possible to produce fabrics that combine the advantages of weaving with those of warp knitting.

TM WEFT fashion impression - AI generated © 2026 KARL MAYER

High speed and premium quality

The TM WEFT, 270", is available in gauges E 24 and E 28 counts and processes a wide range of materials – from polyester and viscose to effect and fancy yarns. The yarn count range is also versatile: the weft-insertion system can process yarns with counts from 33 dtex to 500 dtex, and the knitting unit with counts from 22 dtex to 110 dtex.

With a speed of up to 1,800 rpm, the machine also operates extremely quickly and precisely. A fabric spreading device and pre-winders, which draw the weft threads evenly from the bobbins and feed them to the weft-insertion system with exact, constant tension, ensure consistently high product quality.

The fabrics produced with the new TM WEFT are among the highlights of the KARL MAYER presentation at ITM from June 9 to 13, 2026. Visitors can find the company at Booth 3/303 A at the Tüyap Fair Convention and Congress Center in Istanbul.

STOLL: Agreement signed for the divestiture of selected assets

In early 2025, KARL MAYER announced its strategic decision to focus on its core business areas of WARP KNITTING, WARP PREPARATION, and TECHNICAL TEXTILES. As part of this move, the flat knitting machine business under the STOLL brand was discontinued and the production site in Reutlingen was closed in October 2025.

KARL MAYER presents a textile TEXTRONIC® innovation at ITM 2026

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“We need to move away from the price trap and return to a value-driven mindset.”

With its new Textile Innovation Center, KARL MAYER is sending a strong signal for innovation, collaboration, and the future of textile applications. In this interview, Karl Josef Mayer discusses new opportunities in warp knitting, the processing of staple fibres, recycling, the changing role of machinery manufacturers, and why the textile industry must once again focus more strongly on the value of textiles. by Oliver Schmidt

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