The purpose of this research is to develop and refine new yarn and knit textile combinations
using Nuyarn technology for a selected niche market. New Zealand’s Nuyarn is an industryconnected
project with Massey University and Levana Textiles. Levana Textiles is a woolen
mill based in Levin with over 50 years industry experience. Through the exploration of trend
forecasting, iterative design process, market research as well as finding a gap in the market, this
result in unique New Zealand products that can demand a premium price.
Nuyarn technology is a new and innovative way of spinning yarn. The technology enhances the
yarn performance by taking the twist out, and instead it lays the fibres along the same orientation
as the rest of the yarn. Levana Textiles have purchased Nuyarn spinning technology. Through
the use of this technology, Levana is producing and introducing innovative and newly improved
products into the textile market. This technology is paramount in setting them apart from other
textile mills as well as bringing a point of difference in the market.
There is a need to achieve smarter performance in blended yarns for circular knitwear apparel.
The wool industry endured hard times in previous years due to the rise in demand for synthetic
fibres in the 1960s. Wool is now re-emerging with companies focusing on new developments and
innovation with the fibre.
As a result of intensive research and development, cutting-edge design process and
contemporary insight into the industry have enabled Levana to lead the way in the development
of new yarn combinations and improved yarn performance through the use of new spinning
technology. Resulting in specialty blended yarn and circular knitted fabrics that provide opportunity
to target niche markets, high profitability, and increased brand awareness for Levana Textiles.
