Get ready for a rare opportunity to step inside one of America’s longest‑running textile mills as Draper Knitting celebrates 170 years of craftsmanship, innovation, and family legacy. For this milestone year, Draper Knitting is opening its doors to the AATCC New England Section for an exclusive, behind‑the‑scenes tour! Open to all attendees, this event is a celebration of the textile community and an exciting introduction to the impact AATCC has across the industry. Non‑members are encouraged to join us and discover how AATCC membership can expand your network, elevate your career, and keep you connected to the innovations shaping the future of textiles. You’ll walk through a living piece of textile history, see machines that have been running for generations, and watch modern technology push the boundaries of what fabrics can do today. And after the tour, the celebration continues with a networking reception designed to help you expand your professional circle and connect with textile experts, innovators, and enthusiasts.
What Makes This Experience Special
- Exclusive mill access — Draper Knitting rarely opens its production floor to visitors, making this a truly unique opportunity
- 170 years of heritage — Join us in honoring Draper Knitting’s remarkable legacy of craftsmanship and innovation.
- Historic + modern machinery — Watch antique knitting machines and cutting‑edge equipment operate side by side.
- Three fabric formation methods — A combination almost never found in one facility.
- Technical + traditional textiles — From simple blends to fabrics used in life‑saving applications.
- 120,000 sq. ft. of production — Explore a massive facility filled with energy, history, and innovation.
Networking Reception
After the tour, join a lively reception where you can:
- Meet textile professionals from across the region
- Connect with AATCC members and industry leaders
- Expand your network in a relaxed, welcoming environment
- Celebrate Draper’s 170‑year legacy with the community
This is the perfect setting for students, designers, engineers, makers, and seasoned professionals to build meaningful connections.
Event Details
- Date: June 18, 2026
- Time: Tours begin at 2:00 PM EST; reception to follow
- Location: Draper Knitting, 28 Draper Lane, Canton, MA 02021
- Admission: Open to AATCC Members, friends, students, and anyone curious about textile manufacturing and AATCC!
- Cost: Complimentary
RSVP:
- Email Bethany Pollack, Vice President of Draper Knitting and AATCC New England Section Officer.
- Include the following details:
- First and Last Name
- Company/Organization
- Member Status
- Phone Number