Astrifa GmbH, a venerable company based in Aidenbach, in the district of Passau, pays homage to traditional craftsmanship through its production of knitted jackets, pullovers, hats, and scarves. Despite the traditional aesthetic, these pieces are meticulously crafted in ultra-modern production facilities, exemplified by the company's use of cutting-edge STOLL machines.

With around 70 employees, Astrifa produces an impressive 700 items weekly, catering to men, women, and children. The choice of the finest merino wool from England underscores the commitment to quality, and the production line exclusively comprises STOLL machines, including the latest models from the ADF and CMS series. Innovative solutions extend to the programming of these machines, where CREATE PLUS, among other patterning systems, plays a crucial role.

Established in 1948, Astrifa transitioned to its current focus on traditional costume clothing in 1978. The enduring success of the company is intertwined with a long-standing partnership with STOLL. Werner Wohlfahrt, Knitting Line Manager at Astrifa, attests to the reliability of STOLL's comprehensive support in addressing issues related to machines, software, or pattern technology.

Wohlfahrt notes, "What I appreciate about STOLL is the always comprehensive support in all matters, whether problems with machines, software, or pattern technology."

The integration of CREATE PLUS software into Astrifa's operations marks a pivotal advancement in pattern creation for traditional Lower Bavarian fashion. CREATE PLUS combines advanced programming capabilities with an intuitive user interface, streamlining the process of programming STOLL flat knitting machines.

In an interview with Wolfram Geuppert, Head of Development Knitwear Design Systems at KARL MAYER STOLL Textilmaschinenfabrik GmbH, Wohlfahrt highlights his positive experience with CREATE PLUS. While he hasn't fully transitioned across all machinery, he emphasizes the software's extensive use on newer machines, particularly for pattern creation projects in conjunction with design levels and line cuts.

Despite considering some additional features, Wohlfahrt views CREATE PLUS as a success, advocating for an ongoing dialogue between the manufacturer and users for continuous improvement. Geuppert expresses willingness to engage in such a dialogue, ensuring the software evolves to meet the evolving needs of Astrifa and the industry at large.