Leading computerized flat knitting technology provider SHIMA SEIKI MFG., LTD. of Wakayama, Japan, together with its Turkish representative TETAS IC VE DIS TICARET A.S., will participate in the ITM 2026 International Textile Machinery Exhibition in Istanbul, Türkiye this month with a full product lineup. In addition to flat knitting machines and design software, visitors will also have the opportunity to experience the full range of SHIMA SEIKI textile machinery with its automatic cutting machine exhibit, all geared toward the fashion apparel market as well as non-apparel related businesses.
With its geographic location of Istanbul traditionally serving as a gateway between East and West, ITM has established itself as one of the largest textile machinery exhibitions, attracting visitors from all ends of the globe.
As pioneer of WHOLEGARMENT® seam-free complete garment knitting, whereby the knitted product can be produced in one entire piece without linking or sewing, SHIMA SEIKI has been setting the standard almost exclusively with over 30 years of experience with its WHOLEGARMENT® knitting technology. WHOLEGARMENT® knitting has gained heavy interest from various apparel and non-apparel markets due to the shrinking workforce of skilled sewing and linking personnel, as well as for its sustainable benefits by requiring the minimum amount of material to produce one item at a time. To meet that interest, the company is showing its MACH2®XS153 WHOLEGARMENT ® knitting machine in 15L. Featuring 4 needle beds and SHIMA SEIKI’s original SlideNeedle™, MACH2®XS is capable of producing high-quality fine gauge WHOLEGARMENT ® knitwear in all needles. Other WHOLEGARMENT® knitting machines include the MACH2®VS V-bed machine for producing WHOLEGARMENT® items using every other needle, shown in 8 and 16 gauges. An economical proposal in V-bed WHOLEGARMENT® knitting will also be shown in the form of the N.SVR®183 machine in 24 gauge.
Meanwhile SHIMA SEIKI’s benchmark technology in computerized shaped knitting is represented by its N.SVR®122 computerized flat knitting machine in 18 gauge, and features such innovations as the R2CARRIAGE®, WideGauge® knitting, spring-type moveable sinkers, DSCS® Digital Stitch Control System, stitch presser, yarn gripper and cutter, and takedown comb. Two new models in the N.SSR® series lineup will be shown for the first time in Türkiye at ITM. The N.SSR®132 and N.SSR®112 both offer industry-leading technology in an economical yet reliable package made in Japan. The N.SSR®132 will be exhibited in 7 gauge, while the N.SSR®112 will be presented in 14 gauge. The SFG®20 seamless glove knitting machine rounds out SHIMA SEIKI’s knitting machine exhibit, in 21 gauge.
On the design side, demonstrations will be performed on APEXFiz® subscription-based design software, providing comprehensive support throughout the production supply chain, integrating production into one smooth and efficient workflow from yarn development, product planning and design, to production and even sales promotion. Especially effective is the way the design evaluation process is improved with ultra-realistic simulation capability, whereby virtual samples replace physical sampling, consequently reducing time, cost and material that otherwise go to waste. When a design is approved for production, knitting data, which is automatically generated, can be easily converted into machine data with SDS® KnitPaint-Online knit software. Furthermore, SHIMA KnitManager™ knit production management software offers solutions for maximizing productivity through monitoring of machine status and production progress. By digitally bridging the gap between design and production, the various software solutions from SHIMA SEIKI help to realize sustainability while digitally transforming the supply chain.
SHIMA SEIKI’s display at ITM will also feature its P-CAM®223 multi-ply computerized cutting machine (NC cutting machine). Fast, efficient and reliable, the P-CAM® series is known for its innovative functions and Made-in-Japan quality, and boast the largest market share in Japan. P-CAM®223’s multi-ply cutting capability allows cutting of material up to 3 inches (80mm), across a cutting area of 2,200 mm x 1,700 mm with option for expansion. A knife sharpening system produces a sharp, strong blade every time. Strong, robust components permit quicker response times for knife movement and more accurate cutting of materials for fashion apparel and other industries.
