[ FEATURE ] The sewing industry is responding to forces both within and beyond its control. Shifting circumstances are likely to change how shops move forward as fabrics smarten up and labor shortages intensify. SEWING INDUSTRY SHAPE-SHIFTING by Pamela Mills-Senn The Orion from Matic is an automated linear sewing machine specifically designed for sewing acrylic, polyester, technical textiles, PVC and other fabrics for the awning industry. It comes equipped with a traveling tray that moves the fabric under a stationary sewing head. Photo: Matic. 26 SPECIALTY FABRICS REVIEW / April 2021