Seeking a microcosm of what the state’s manufacturers have gone through the past several years? You could do worse than Clow Stamping’s experience. The Merrifield metal fabricator and stamping company had to lay off 70 people in 2009 as recession and higher costs took their toll. Then starting in 2010, the company bounced back with a 45 percent increase in revenue and more than 50 hires. According to company CEO Reggie Clow, 2011 was “even better,” with a 38 percent increase in sales.