Abstract: A fused spacer fabric pad is provided having an upper layer of fabric, a lower layer of fabric, a plurality of spacer fibers therebetween, and a bead along lateral edge portions of the pad. The bead acts as a fused joint between the upper and lower layers of fabric. A method for forming the spacer fabric pad can include compressing portions of the spacer fabric together to form an outline of the spacer fabric pad, melting the compressed portions to form a fused joint, and cooling the fused joint while compressing the portions. The method can be performed using a die press that has a first platen, an opposing second platen, and a fusing die attached to the first platen. The fusing die can include a fusing blade that substantially forms the outline of the spacer fabric pad and that is formed of an electrically resistive material.

Abstract: A method is provided for cutting beaded fabric that includes a bead attached to cloth-like material. According to one embodiment, a continuous length of the beaded fabric is fed through a guide into a die-cutting press and is die-cut via a soft anvil die while the material is retained in the guide. A guide is also provided for retaining the beaded fabric during die-cutting operations. Pre-cut beaded fabric is also provided that is easily separated into tie-downs. A continuous cutting method is also provided for forming individual tie-downs from a combination of fabric and plastic material used to form a bead on the fabric. The continuous cutting method may include die-cutting beaded fabric, placing a mark on a bead of the beaded fabric, and severing the bead at the mark.