From 7 to 9 March 2025, Cologne will host h+h cologne, the leading international trade fair for the craft and creative hobbies sector. The event will be held at the Koelnmesse exhibition centre and will present the latest news in areas such as knitting, crochet, sewing, embroidery and other manual activities.
L’edizione di quest’anno si concentra sul tema “Commercio Locale: Creare il Futuro“, offrendo una piattaforma ideale per il networking internazionale, l’apprendimento e lo sviluppo di nuove idee. I partecipanti avranno l’opportunità di connettersi con una comunità forte, stabilire contatti locali e prepararsi alle sfide future del commercio al dettaglio.
H+H Cologne: the programme of the craft fair
The event programme includes several thematic areas:
Talk Zone: discussion sessions on topics relevant to the sector.
Academy Zone: 90-minute in-depth workshops where industry experts share practical solutions for the future of local business. Workshops can be booked in advance.
Creative Zone: a space dedicated to improving craft techniques through practical sessions.
Green Zones & Trend Zones: areas that highlight sustainable products and innovative ideas in the world of crafts.
Fashion Show: shows presenting the latest trends in the textile handicraft sector.
With more than 300 exhibitors from 40 countries and more than 12,000 visitors expected from 78 nations, h+h cologne 2025 is a must for professionals and enthusiasts of the sector. The event offers a wide range of opportunities for business growth, from efficient networking and access to an international community, to numerous learning programmes and events.
To participate, you can buy tickets online on the official event website. It is advisable to plan travel and accommodation in advance, given the expected attendance. h+h cologne 2025 promises to be an event full of inspiration, innovation and opportunities for all the operators in the craft sector and creative hobbies. Also Manifattura Foderami Cimmino will be present, at the Hall 11.2 Stand A041.
Carnival is the perfect occasion to unleash your imagination and create unique handmade costumes. But the secret to creating truly original costumes is all in the choice of fabrics. Using quality fabrics and combining them with simple techniques, it is possible to make surprising and personalized costumes, both for children and adults. Among the proposals of Manifattura Foderami Cimmino you will find practical ideas and tips to create DIY Carnival clothes using fabrics, placing emphasis on the most suitable materials and how to work them at best.
Materials needed to create a carnival dress
The choice of fabric is the first step for a DIY Carnival costume that is comfortable, durable and impressive. Here are the fabrics for Carnival costumes and their characteristics:
Felt: Easy to cut and work with, the Coloured Felt is ideal for structured costumes such as hats, masks or accessories.
Tulle: Perfect for fluffy skirts, butterfly wings or ethereal details. The Tulle Elastic Hud, for example, is available in many colors and easy to match.
Cotton: A versatile and breathable fabric, ideal for creating base of costumes such as shirts or pants. Cotton Digital Art is easy to sew and decorate.
Satin: For an elegant and shiny effect, ideal for princess dresses, capes or historical costumes you can use the Printed Jolly Satin.
Wool cloth: The Make Glitter Extra Cloth is great for capes or decorative details, thanks to its warm and soft texture.
Lycra: The Licra Sugar is perfect for tight costumes, like those of a superhero, thanks to its elasticity.
Mixed fabric scraps: For those who want to save money, the fabric cutouts are a valuable resource to create imaginative costumes.
To these materials you can add accessories such as ribbons, trimmings, sequins and fabric glue, essential for decorative details.
Simple techniques for sewing and decorating costumes
You don’t need to be an expert tailor to create a DIY Carnival costume. With the right techniques, even beginners can achieve excellent results:
Cutting and gluing: For fabrics such as felt or tulle, it is often not necessary to sew. With a good fabric glue, you can fix decorations or assemble costume parts.
Hand-knitted base stitch: If you don’t have a sewing machine, you can make simple seams and hems using the filza stitch. It’s fast and functional.
Fabric overlays: To add three-dimensional details, such as petals or layers of skirts, simply superimpose and secure the fabrics with pins or glue.
DIY decorations: Use fabric colors to create custom patterns or stencil for precise designs.
Elastic and velcro: These accessories are very useful for creating adjustable costumes, especially for growing children.
These techniques allow you to work any type of fabric without difficulty, obtaining a neat and original result.
Do-it-yourself ideas for children: easy and safe costumes
Children love colourful and fun Carnival costumes. Here are some ideas to make using fabrics:
Butterfly or fairy: Use colored tulle to create a fluffy skirt and add wings of felt decorated with sequins.
Superhero: With satin or light cotton, make a cape, while a felt mask will complete the look.
Animals: A piece of wool cloth can become a tail or ears, to be sewn on an elastic band.
Giant flower: With the green tulle you can create a base for the costume and add colored felt petals around the face.
To ensure safety, use hypoallergenic fabrics and make sure the costumes are comfortable and easy to wear.
Easy DIY carnival costumes for adults
Adults can also have fun creating original costumes using fabrics. Here are some suggestions:
Medieval prince or princess: With satin and velvet, you can make a tunic or elegant dress, adding details in gold trimmings.
Pirate: Use black or red cotton to create a headband, cape and decorative belt.
Mime: With striped fabrics and a little black tulle, you can create the classic mime costume, simple and elegant.
Historical character: A cotton sheet can be transformed into a Roman toga, while the velvet lends itself to capes of kings or queens.
Thanks to the versatility of the fabrics, you can create unique and high impact costumes without having to buy pre-packaged clothes.
Creative recycling: how to use pieces of cloth for a new costume
If you have unused fabrics or leftover scraps, the Carnival is the perfect opportunity to recycle them:
Patchwork: Sewing together pieces of cloth of different colors can give life to an original and sustainable costume, such as that of a clown or a jester.
Butterfly or dragon wings: Use glossy or transparent fabrics to create decorative accessories, fixing them with glue or simple seams.
Custom capes: A long piece of cloth can be decorated with stencils or applications to turn into a superhero cape.
Creative recycling not only saves you money, but also helps reduce waste by turning unused materials into something unique.
5 easy to make last minute Carnival costumes
If time is short, these last minute costumes are perfect:
Little Red Riding Hood: A piece of red cotton for your cloak and a basket of wicker turn you into a fairy tale heroine.
Vintage Ghost: Use an old white cotton sheet and add eyes and mouth with fabric paint.
Witch: With black tulle you can create a voluminous skirt, matching it to a hat made of felt.
Superhero: A piece of colored satin for the cape and a felt mask are enough to create a fast costume.
Giant flower: Green tulle for the body and fabric petals sewn around a circle complete the look.
With the right fabrics and a little creativity, you can make unique costumes even at the last minute.
Making DIY Carnival costumes is a creative and satisfying way to make the most of fabrics. Whether it is children’s clothes or adult costumes, with the right materials and fabrics to choose from on the Catalog of Carnival Fabrics 2025 Cimmino, you can create something unique and memorable. You just have to choose the fabrics that you prefer and give life to your next masterpiece!
From 21 to 23 February 2025, the historic Fortezza da Basso in Florence will host the nineteenth edition of Danzainfiera, the most anticipated international event dedicated to the world of dance. Industry professionals, dancers, schools, companies and enthusiasts will gather to celebrate all the nuances of this art.
This year’s theme, “DANCE BEYOND“, is an ode to freedom of expression, encouraging people to overcome stereotypes and celebrate dance as a pure form of personal expression.
The programme includes over 400 events spread out over 65,000 square metres, with 20,000 dancers performing on various stages. The following are among the key events:
Masterclass and Auditions: Patrick Armand, new Artistic Director of the Wiener Staatsoper Ballettakademie in Vienna, will hold a masterclass on 21 February. On 23 February, the Joffrey Ballet School will offer an audition for young talent between 10 and 13 years old.
Thematic Workshops: Mario Charty will lead a Hip Hop masterclass on February 22, while Igal Perry of the Peridance Center in New York will lead a special session of classical and neoclassical dance on February 23.
Performances and Competitions: The “Dance Parade” will offer schools the opportunity to perform in a non-competitive context, while the “Pop Tap Festival” on 23 February will be dedicated to Tip Tap fans.
Danzainfiera 2025: the exhibition of clothing, footwear and accessories for dance
In addition to the performance activities, Danzainfiera 2025 will present an exhibition area with the latest in terms of clothing, footwear and accessories for dance, offering participants the opportunity to discover trends and innovative products. Also Manifattura Foderami Cimmino will be present at the CENTRAL PAVILION GROUND FLOOR – STAND B3.
To attend lectures, auditions or choreographic events, registration is required on the official website. Tickets are available online only and vary depending on the activities you choose.
Danzainfiera 2025 is confirmed as a must-see event for all dance lovers, offering an immersive experience that celebrates passion, art and community.
From 23 to 24 February 2025, the NEC in Birmingham will host the 50th edition of CHSI Stitches, the leading trade event for the craft sector in the UK. Organised by ICHF Events, this annual trade fair brings together key suppliers and manufacturers from around the world, offering a unique opportunity for industry professionals to connect, discover new products and attend free educational seminars.
CHSI Stitches is recognised as the leading meeting point for the craft industry which attracts over 6,000 buyers and more than 200 exhibitors presenting over 100,000 innovative products each year. The event offers a platform to explore the latest trends and market news, with stands highlighting the latest product releases from emerging designers and established brands in the creative sector.
Birmingham craft fair: all the latest from the handcraft sector
One of the hallmarks of CHSI Stitches is the annual presentation of the “Craft Report”, which provides key data on industry trends. This relationship is fundamental for craft professionals, offering exclusive insights into market dynamics and consumer preferences.
For visitors arriving by car, you can pre-pay for online parking before the day of your visit, saving £5 and ensuring greater convenience on arrival. In addition, the NEC offers a range of services to enhance the experience of participants, including dining options and a variety of partner hotels nearby, such as the Voco St. John’s Hotel and the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, which offer comfortable accommodation and additional services to make your stay even more enjoyable.
Participation in CHSI Stitches is free, but you must register in advance. For further details on the event, including opening hours and information on exhibitors, please visit the official NEC website.
Don’t miss the opportunity to attend this event, which is a must for all professionals and enthusiasts of the craft sector, where innovation, networking and training come together to promote the growth and development of the creative industry. Also Manifattura Foderami Cimmino will be present, at HALL 7/8 – STAND G51.
From 10 to 12 February 2025, the Paris-Le Bourget exhibition centre will host Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris, one of the most significant events in the world fashion and textile scene. This event, which takes place twice a year, brings together over one thousand exhibitors from around 30 countries, offering professionals in the sector a sourcing platform ranging from basic products to the most innovative and high-quality creations.
The February 2025 edition will present a new organization of exhibition spaces to foster synergies between materials and finished products. In particular, Hall 4 will be dedicated to women’s wardrobe, while Hall 3 will host a large area dedicated to outdoor, sportswear and casualwear. All services, the trend forum, restaurants and the Agora, where conferences and round tables will take place, will be concentrated in Hall 2.
Texworld 2025: exhibitors from all over the world arrive in Paris
The main exhibiting countries include China, Turkey, India, Korea, Indonesia, Pakistan, Thailand and Bangladesh. In addition, the initiative of the Yarn Expo pavilion will be renewed, enhancing the upstream sector and the know-how of the main spinning companies.
Special attention will be given to sustainability through the Texpertise Econogy initiative. Visitors will be able to identify suppliers of sustainably produced fabrics through the Econogy Finder, attend conferences on environmental issues as part of the Econogy Talks and take part in Econogy Tours, Guided tours focusing on sustainable supply, scheduled for 10 and 11 February.
To attend the event, you can register and get a free badge on the official website of the event. Texworld Apparel Sourcing Paris is confirmed as a must-see event for all fashion and textile professionals: Manufacture Foderami Cimmino will also be present at the Hall 3/ E357 Elite Sector.
Calculating the weight of fabrics is a fundamental skill for those working in the textile industry, for manufacturers of clothing and furniture. The weight of the fabric not only determines the type of application, but is also an indicator of the quality and strength of the material. Manifattura Foderami Cimmino explains in detail how to calculate the weight of fabrics with precise formulas, practical examples and useful tips.
Calculate the weight of tissues
The weight of fabrics is mainly measured in grams per square metre (GSM) or linear metre. Understanding this measurement is essential to determine the thickness and end use of the material, both for clothing and furniture.
How to measure the weight of tissues
Tissue weight is measured using specific instruments such as digital scales and calculators. The most common measurement is in grams per square metre (GSM), a universal unit of measure in the textile sector.
Fabric weight: grams per square meter (GSM)
GSM is the number of grams of a fabric distributed over one square metre. For example, lightweight fabrics ranging from 50 to 150 GSM are ideal for shirts, light underwear and accessories such as foulards. The medium fabrics, on the other hand, have a weight between 150 and 300 GSM and are suitable for making trousers, skirts and sheets. Finally, heavy fabrics exceed 300 GSM and are used for winter garments such as jackets and coats, as well as for curtains and upholstery materials.
The GSM measurement is crucial to identify the use of the fabric. A lightweight fabric is breathable and suitable for warm climates, while a heavier one provides more resistance and insulation.
Difference between light and heavy fabrics
The main difference between light and heavy fabrics lies in their density and thickness:
Lightweight fabrics: Thinner, breathable and delicate. Perfect for summer clothing and light underwear.
Heavy fabrics: Denser, more resistant and suitable for cold climates, furniture or technical uses.
Formula for calculating tissue weight
To calculate the weight of a fabric, use the following formula:
Fabric weight (GSM) = (Sample weight in grams/ Sample area in square meters)
Example:
Cut a sample of fabric measuring 10 cm x 10 cm (0.01 m 2).
Weigh the sample with a digital scale. Suppose it weighs 2 grams.
Applicare la formula: o GSM = 2 g / 0,01 m2 = 200 GSM
The weight of the fabric is therefore 200 grams per square meter.
Calculation of tissue weight per linear metre
When measuring weight per linear meter, it is important to consider the width of the fabric. The formula becomes:
Weight per linear metre = GSM x width of the fabric (in metres)
Example:
Fabric weight: 200 GSM
Width: 1.5 m
Weight per linear metre = 200 x 1.5 = 300 g/m
How to understand the weight of the tissue
To understand the weight of the fabric, it is essential to make an accurate measurement with a precision scale and follow the GSM formula. In addition, consulting the supplier’s technical specifications helps to confirm actual weight.
Relationship between tissue weight and quality
The weight of the fabric is often related to its quality. Heavier fabrics tend to be more durable and durable, but this does not mean that light fabrics are of low quality. The choice depends on the final application and customer requirements.
Practical examples for measuring tissue weight
Clothing: A summer shirt requires a fabric between 80-150 GSM, while a coat needs at least 350 GSM.
Furniture: For light curtains, we recommend a weight between 100-200 GSM, while a fabric for upholstery requires more than 400 GSM.
How to choose the weight of fabric for clothing and furniture
The choice of fabric weight depends on the type of application:
Clothing: Light fabrics for summer garments, medium fabrics for shirts and trousers, heavy fabrics for jackets and coats.
Furniture: Light fabrics for decorative curtains, medium for bedspreads and heavy for sofas and upholstery.
Difference between light, medium and heavy fabrics: applications and advice
When it comes to textiles, their classification into light, medium and heavy helps determine the most appropriate use based on the characteristics of the material. Lightweight fabrics are perfect for applications where breathability and softness are essential, such as in summer clothing and light underwear. Medium fabrics are a versatile choice, suitable for both casual wear and furnishing elements such as sheets and semi-transparent curtains. Finally, heavy fabrics are distinguished by their strength and insulating capacity, ideal for winter clothing, upholstery and industrial uses.
Tissue weight measurement tools: scales and calculators
To measure tissue weight accurately, you need:
Digital scales: Essential tool for weighing small tissue samples.
GSM Calculators: Online tools or software that help you quickly calculate the weight of your tissue by entering the weight and size of your sample.
Standardized samples: To obtain accurate measurements, it is important to cut samples of precise size (e.g. 10 cm x 10 cm).
Calculating tissue weight is not just a technical issue, but an essential skill in selecting materials for different applications. Whether it is clothing, furniture or industrial applications, knowing GSM allows you to make informed choices and optimize the quality of products.
Choosing the right fabrics is a crucial step for anyone working in the textile industry, from fashion to furniture. Knowing the composition and characteristics of materials allows you to make informed choices, ensuring quality and satisfaction to end customers. Manifattura Foderami Cimmino teaches how to read and interpret information on the composition of fabrics, with a particular focus on percentages and symbols often found in labels.
Table composition fabrics
Here is a useful table to understand the composition of the most common tissues and their main applications:
This table is a basis for identifying the most common materials in the textile market. However, it is important to delve into the differences between natural, synthetic and mixed fabrics.
Guide to tissue composition
Understanding the composition of textiles is essential for those working in the textile industry. This directly affects the properties of the material, its application and the maintenance required. Correct interpretation of the information on labels can make the difference between a product suitable for use and one that is intended to disappoint customers.
How to read the composition of tissues
Textile labels are essential for knowing the characteristics of a material. Usually, the composition is given in percentages showing the ratio of different fibers present. For example, a fabric with 80% cotton and 20% polyester is considered a blend, appreciated for the combination of comfort and strength.
Steps to interpret a label:
Read the percentages: Look for the predominant material to understand the main characteristics of the fabric.
Identify additional fibers: Synthetic or elastic fibers, such as elastane, may be present in small percentages to improve the fit.
See symbols: The symbols on the labels give instructions for washing, drying and ironing.
Understanding this information is particularly useful for textile professionals who have to ensure the quality of the final product.
Percentage of textile composition
Composition percentages directly influence the quality and use of a fabric. Here are some common combinations and their meanings:
100% cotton: Natural, soft and breathable fabric. Ideal for casual wear and linen.
50% cotton, 50% polyester: A balanced mix of comfort and resistance. Perfect for shirts and garments resistant to frequent washing.
97% cotton, 3% elastane: Added stretch for a better fit, typical of jeans and tight pants.
100% polyester: Durable and versatile, but less breathable. Often used for sportswear and accessories.
These percentages may vary according to the specific needs of the producer or consumer. A blended fabric can offer the ideal compromise between aesthetics, functionality and durability.
Symbols composition fabrics
In addition to the percentages, it is important to know the symbols that accompany textile labels. Some of the most common include:
Basin symbol: Indicates the maximum recommended washing temperature.
Circle with a “P”: Indicates the possibility of dry cleaning.
Triangle: Inform about the possibility of bleaching the fabric.
Iron: Shows if the material is suitable for ironing and at what temperature.
Interpreting these symbols correctly is essential to keep the tissues in good condition over time. It also helps manufacturers to provide clear instructions to their customers.
Guide to textile materials
Textiles are the beating heart of any fashion, furniture and industrial project. Understanding the characteristics of fabrics, their origins and specific applications is crucial to choosing the product that best suits the end customer’s needs. This section explores the main differences between natural, synthetic and mixed fabrics, offering useful tools for a conscious selection.
Natural and synthetic fabrics: comparative table
Knowing these differences helps you choose the right material for each project, considering both performance and environmental impact. For example, natural fabrics are ideal for garments intended for warm climates due to their breathability, while synthetic fabrics excel in technical and durable applications.
Difference between natural and mixed fabrics
Natural fabrics, such as cotton, linen and wool, are appreciated for their breathability and comfort. However, they may require more attention in maintenance. Mixed fabrics, on the other hand, combine natural and synthetic fibers to offer the best of both worlds: resistance, elasticity and practicality.
An example is the stretch fabric, which often combines cotton and elastane for a comfortable and durable effect. This type of fabric is particularly used in the fashion industry, where flexibility and durability are essential.
Composition of textiles and clothing
In the clothing industry, fabric composition plays a crucial role. A garment made of natural fibers will be ideal for those looking for comfort and sustainability, while technical fabrics are perfect for those who need high performance, as in the case of active & streetwear.
Some examples:
Casual clothing: Natural fabrics such as cotton and linen.
Technical clothing: Polyester and nylon for strength and lightness.
Elegant clothing: Mixed with viscose for a soft and silky effect.
Here too, knowing the characteristics of materials helps meet end-user expectations.
Significance of tissue composition
Understanding the composition of fabrics means ensuring that each choice is fit for end use. This not only helps to avoid errors in production, but also improves customer satisfaction. For example:
A mixed fabric with high polyester content is ideal for corporate uniforms that must withstand frequent washing.
A 100% natural fabric is perfect for high-end sheets or summer clothing.
In conclusion, knowing materials is a fundamental skill for those working in the B2B sector, since it allows to optimize every phase of the production process and guarantee the highest quality to customers.
Organza ribbon is a versatile and refined material, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to decorations, gifts and DIY projects. Thanks to its light texture and bright colors, it is ideal for creating original and personalized compositions. Manifattura Foderami Cimmino proposes several ideas to use organza tape in a creative way, offering practical ideas to make the most of this product.
Flowers with organza ribbon
One of the most fascinating uses of organza ribbon is to create decorative flowers. These flowers can be used to beautify wedding favors, gifts, hair accessories or decorations for events. Thanks to the transparency and lightness of the material, the flowers obtained are delicate and refined.
Roses with organza ribbon
Roses made with organza fabric are a timeless classic. To create them, simply wrap the ribbon around itself, forming a spiral shape to form the petals. Fix each round with needle and thread or a drop of hot glue. Organza roses can be used to decorate centerpieces, garlands or even fabric for formal dresses.
How to make flowers with organza ribbon
To create other types of flowers with organza ribbon, follow these simple steps:
Cut the ribbon into sections of the desired length according to the size of the flower.
Fold the ribbon in half to create the petals.
Fix the petals at the base with needle and thread or hot glue.
Assemble the petals around a decorative center, like a pearl or small button.
With a little practice, you can create daisies, tulips or abstract flowers that are perfect for any project.
Bow with organza ribbon
Another popular use of tape is the creation of decorative bows. Bows can be applied to gifts, wedding favors, bouquets or even on wedding dresses.
How to make bow with organza ribbon
Here’s how to make a stylish bow with organza:
Cut a piece of tape to the desired length.
Form two rings by crossing them in the middle.
Fix the central node with a thin thread or a drop of hot glue.
Adjust the ends by cutting them in a pointed or “dovetail” shape for a touch of style.
For a bulkier effect, layer several layers of tape before creating the bow.
How to decorate with organza ribbon
Organza ribbon is a versatile decorative element, ideal for customizing environments and accessories. Here are some practical ideas:
Home decorations: use the tape to wrap candles, vases or frames.
Personalized accessories: enriched bags, hats or clips with bows or flowers in organza.
With its lightness and transparency, the organza ribbon lends itself to elegant and minimalist decorations.
Organza ribbon for wedding favors
The favors get a touch of sophistication when they are decorated with organza ribbon. You can use it to close candy bags, wrap boxes or create small flakes to apply as a final detail. Choose colors that match the theme of the event for a harmonious effect.
This product stimulates creativity and offers endless possibilities. Here are some original ideas:
Custom placeholders: create small bows or flowers to apply on cards.
Fashion accessories: use the ribbon to make bracelets or necklaces.
Christmas decorations: decorate the Christmas tree with colored organza bows.
The versatility of organza ribbon makes it suitable for any occasion.
Colored organza ribbon
Available in a wide range of colours, organza allows you to play with shades to create amazing visual effects. From pastel tones for elegant events to bright colors for cheerful parties, you can choose the perfect shade for every project.
Organza ribbon for weddings
The ribbon is a must for wedding decorations. It can be used to:
Decorate the chairs with bows or drapes.
Embellish the bouquet of the bride and bridesmaids.
Create refined and harmonious centerpieces.
Its discreet elegance makes it ideal to add a romantic touch to every detail of the wedding.
Choose products Cimmino: Organza Rainbow United
The United Rainbow Organza is a versatile and elegant fabric, ideal for enhancing a wide range of creative projects. Made of 100% polyester, this thin and transparent fabric stands out for its canvas weave and rigid hand, which guarantee a stable structure and a refined appearance.
With a height of 140 cm and a weight of 24 gr/sqm, the organza combines lightness and resistance, offering a glossy finish that captures the light in a spectacular way. Available in 25-meter rolls, it is particularly suitable for large productions and high impact decorations.
Thanks to its versatility, the Rainbow Organza is perfect for:
Wedding favors and decorations: enrich special events such as weddings, christenings or birthdays with elegant and personalized details.
Carnival and cosplay: create original costumes and unique accessories thanks to its light and shiny texture.
Christmas and events: decorate trees, tables or gift boxes with a sparkling touch.
Bride and ceremony: give refinement to veils, bows or tailoring details for ceremonial dresses.
Creative packaging: wrap gifts and products in style, adding visual value to your packaging.
Organza ribbon is much more than a simple decorative material: it is a creative resource to customize any project. Whether it’s wedding favors, event decorations or DIY accessories, this material offers endless possibilities to express your style and creativity.
