Marine Fabricators Conference – ATA

Marine Fabricators Conference 2026 – The Premier Event for Marine Canvas, Upholstery & Fabrication Professionals

The Marine Fabricators Conference 2026, hosted by the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA), returns to the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, bringing together top marine canvas fabricators, upholsterers, designers, sewing experts, and marine equipment manufacturers.

As one of the most respected gatherings in the marine textile community, this event delivers hands-on training, live demonstrations, new materials, and cutting-edge fabrication technologies—making it a critical destination for professionals preparing for the 2026 boating and marine season.

Event Overview

Event Name: Marine Fabricators Conference – ATA – Advanced Textiles Association
Start Date: January 8, 2026
End Date: January 10, 2026
Venue: New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
Venue Address: 900 Convention Center Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
City: New Orleans
Country: United States

Event Website: https://www.advancedtextiles.org/?utm_source=alsett.com
Venue Website: https://mccno.com/?utm_source=alsett.com

Introduction

The Marine Fabricators Conference is the leading annual event dedicated to the craft and business of marine fabrication. Hosted by the Advanced Textiles Association (ATA), the conference focuses on the latest innovations in marine canvas work, upholstery, patterning, stitching, material performance, and fabrication technology.

Attendees include:

• marine canvas & enclosure fabricators

• upholstery specialists

• boat interior designers

• pattern-making professionals

• outdoor textile suppliers

• marine hardware and equipment manufacturers

It is recognized as the best hands-on, skill-focused marine fabrication event in North America.

What Exhibitors & Attendees Can Expect

1. Hands-On Workshops & Technical Demonstrations

The Marine Fabricators Conference is known for its practical training sessions, covering:

• advanced patterning techniques

• canvas enclosure construction

• upholstery stitching & foam shaping

• machine operation and maintenance

• digital patterning and cutting tools

These workshops help fabricators improve efficiency and elevate craftsmanship.

2. Marine Canvas, Covers & Enclosures

Fabricators and suppliers showcase innovations in:

• biminis & dodgers

• boat covers & travel tops

• custom marine enclosures

• UV-, mildew-, and salt-resistant fabrics

• performance marine textiles

This category remains the backbone of many marine fabrication shops.

3. Marine Upholstery & Interior Materials

Attendees can explore:

• vinyls, leathers & coated fabrics

• foam, padding & support materials

• thread, piping & finishing elements

• high-performance seating materials

• marine-grade reinforcement supplies

Interior upgrades are among the high-demand services in the boating market.

4. Digital Tools, Cutting Systems & Shop Technology

The 2026 conference highlights a growing shift toward digital workflow tools, including:

• CNC cutting tables

• laser and automated pattern scanning

• measurement and templating software

• 3D visualization tools

• digital shop management systems

These technologies help shops reduce labor time and increase precision.

5. Marine Hardware, Fasteners & Components

Suppliers will feature:

• zippers, snaps, track hardware

• stainless steel fittings

• premium thread & binding

• marine hinges & frame hardware

• installation tools & accessories

Small components play a critical role in durability and client satisfaction.

Why the Marine Fabricators Conference 2026 Matters

1. The Most Skill-Focused Marine Fabrication Event

With in-depth classes led by working marine fabricators, attendees receive real-world, immediately applicable training.

2. Direct Access to Premium Marine Textile Brands

Suppliers showcase the newest performance fabrics, advanced stitching materials, and high-durability marine components.

3. New Technologies Reshaping Marine Fabrication

Digital patterning, automation, and advanced visualization tools are transforming shop workflows.

4. Strong Networking & Business Development Opportunities

Fabricators, shop owners, and suppliers gather to share strategies, discover new vendors, and build relationships.

5. Education Backed by ATA Expertise

The Advanced Textiles Association’s long-standing commitment to the marine sector ensures high-quality programming every year.

Final Thoughts

The Marine Fabricators Conference 2026 is an essential event for marine canvas shops, upholsterers, and fabrication professionals seeking to sharpen their skills, adopt new technologies, and stay ahead of industry trends.

From hands-on workshops to the latest materials and tools, the event delivers unmatched value for businesses looking to expand capabilities and meet growing consumer expectations in the marine sector.

For professionals working in boat canvas, upholstery, or marine fabrication, New Orleans is the place to be this January.

Marine Fabrication, Upholstery, Marine Canvas, Boating Industry
marine fabrication expo, marine textiles event, ATA conference 2026

ExpoMax360 Source:
https://expomax360.com/atlas/marine-fabricators-conference-ata-advanced-textiles-association/?utm_source=alsett.com