Reportable Segments and Geographic Data (Schedule of Restructuring Costs by Reporting Segment) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	$ 9,317	$ 3,747	$ 68,174
Paper Machine Clothing [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	3,260	3,705	66,941
Engineered Fabrics [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	2,420	1,057	4,311
Engineered Composites [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	57	930	291
PrimaLoft Products [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring costs			61
Unallocated Expenses [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Restructuring costs	$ 3,580	$ (1,945)	$ (3,430)