Note 9 - Segment Information - Sales by Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2023	Jul. 31, 2022	Jul. 31, 2023	Jul. 31, 2022
Net sales	$ 15,652	$ 23,842	$ 56,294	$ 62,265
UNITED STATES
Net sales	13,955	19,925	50,967	56,292
CANADA
Net sales	703	2,218	1,875	3,179
ITALY
Net sales	300	1,214	1,692	1,387
MEXICO
Net sales	0	29	3	106
All Other Foreign Countries [Member]
Net sales	694	456	1,757	1,301
Non-US [Member]
Net sales	$ 1,697	$ 3,917	$ 5,327	$ 5,973