Sewbo is bringing automation to the sewing industry.

Our unique approach to fabric handling enables off-the-shelf industrial robots to work with a wide range of fabric and sewing machines.

Use of robotics will lower costs and lead times, allowing for more responsive manufacturing and less waste. Reprogrammable systems also enable new concepts like on-demand manufacturing of custom-fit clothing.

We are hiring for a variety of technical roles! If you're interested, please reach out to careers@sewbo.com

How it Works

Despite widespread use in other industries, automation has made little progress in clothing manufacturing due to the difficulties robots face when trying to manipulate limp, flexible fabrics.

Sewbo avoids these hurdles by temporarily stiffening fabrics, allowing off-the-shelf industrial robots to easily build garments from rigid cloth, just as if they were working with sheet metal. The fabric panels can be easily molded and welded before being permanently sewn together.

The water-soluble stiffener is removed at the end of the manufacturing process with a simple rinse in hot water, leaving a soft, fully assembled piece of clothing. The stiffener can then be recovered for reuse.

FAQ

What products can the robots make?

Although Sewbo’s technology is intended as a general-purpose solution, we’re currently focused on large-scale blue jean production as we bring the product to market. As the technology matures, the robots’ capabilities will be expanded to other product types.

What does it cost? Can we order one? Is it available for export?

Sewbo’s technology is still under development and being trialed with select partners. It is not yet available for purchase. We are always happy to explore additional opportunities and collaborators. Please reach out to inquiries@sewbo.com with details about your factory.

What does the fabric treatment entail? Is it safe? What happens to it after assembly?

Our process employs Polyvinyl Alcohol, a non-toxic polymer that is already in widespread use for textile production. It can also be found in products like laundry and dishwasher pods, eye drops, diapers, and even some water treatment plants. The material can be recovered and re-used in a closed-loop process. For applications where this is not possible, the polymer is non-toxic and biodegradable and can safely be integrated into existing effluent processes.

What fabrics can Sewbo work with?

Any fabrics that can get wet are suitable for this approach. We can handle a wide range of materials, including lace and all manner of stretch fabrics.

Are you hiring?

Yes! We are seeking help with a wide range of interesting challenges. If you are interested in being an early team member of a small startup, please reach out to careers@sewbo.com

Why not just freeze the fabric?

Off-the-shelf sewing machines and robots are designed to work at room temperature. The cost and complications of developing specialized cold-weather equipment would be unfeasible. Additionally, freezing an entire assembly line would be very energy intensive.