Drop-Stitch Manufacturing in the USA

Despite being pioneered in the 1950’s, drop-stitch remains a relatively unexplored material. With most of the global manufacturing in Asia, long lead times and prohibitive MOQs have stunted innovation and technological advancement. Many are surprised to discover a fully established drop-stitch supply chain in the USA.

Using domestically manufactured yarn, the base drop-stitch fabric is woven in Tennessee by Third Dimension Textile Solutions. Next the drop-stitch is coated in a thermoplastic or rubber before being incorporated in to composites or inflatables by domestic manufacturers.

The unique structure of drop-stitch facilitates the performance of hard-shell rigid structures, combined with the easy transportation and storage of inflatables. Picture being able to transport a rigid structure the size of your garden shed in a large backpack. Existing uses include:

-       Stand-Up Paddleboards (SUPs)

-       High Pressure Lifting Bags

-       Kayaks, Boats, and Dinghies

-       Air Mattresses and Camping Pads

-       Inflatable Tents and Emergency Structures

-       Flood Protection

-       Floating Platforms and Docks

-       Yoga and Fitness Boards

These are just a few examples of the applications of drop-stitch technology. The flexibility of the US supply chain is rapidly facilitating new product and market developments.