Innovations in papermaking technology drive manufacturers of paper machine clothing to develop new products. In trying to keep pace with faster paper machine speeds and increased productivity, press-fabric designers are shouldering greater responsibility for improved sheet quality from both their publicationgrade and kraft-paper customers. Supported by detailed charts and graphs, this article focuses specifically on laminated press fabrics from a design engineer's perspective. Beginning with a historical review, the author relates the performance requirements of paper machine clothing and how laminated press fabrics have evolved to meet these demands. Engineers continue to adapt to ever-changing machine types and conditions with new designs. Specifically, the next stage of the evolution is 'apertured' structures.