Real reason why all towels have decorative weave towards the edge - Irish Star

Have you ever found yourself in the shower, reaching for a towel, and wondering why all towels have that decorative weave towards the edge?

This feature has a name and a purpose. Known as a dobby border, it is crucial to ensure the towel's longevity, durability, and functionality, according to a blog post on the Cotton Monk website.

The dobby border is designed to strengthen the ends of the towel and prevent fraying over time. This is particularly important for towels, which are used daily and frequently washed. Without this border, your towel would weaken, fray, and unravel, significantly reducing its lifespan.

Interestingly, the dobby border adds an extra design element to your towel, giving it a refined, specially-designed look. The Direct Textile Store explained: "Dobby towels utilise a dobby loom, which adds extra texture and depth to the fabric through the incorporation of small geometric patterns or motifs. This attention to detail not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the towels but also reflects the skill and craftsmanship involved in their production."

The store stated: "The meticulous weaving process ensures that the fabric maintains its integrity wash after wash, resisting pilling, fraying, and fading over time. This durability not only extends the lifespan of the towels but also reduces the need for frequent replacement, making them a sustainable choice for eco-conscious consumers."

In a recent social media flare-up about the point of a towel's dobby border, Towel Hub piped up in a blog entry to say it's there to "prevent fraying and extend lifespan," "enhance durability for commercial use," "balance the towel's structure" and even "aid in quick drying" by "ensuring that moisture is evenly distributed throughout the towel's surface."

Cotton Monk's site said there are a variety of dobby borders on offer. Some examples include Simple woven borders, which are a classic design often found in everyday bath towels.

There are Chevron or herringbone borders. These feature a zigzag or chevron weave and are often seen in higher-end home towels or spa towels.

Satin borders have a smooth, shiny finish and a silk-like appearance. They are found in more premium hotels and designer collections and cost more. Cotton Monk also said that sculpted or textured borders cost more because they have "raised patterns that create a three-dimensional effect."

Digging into the threads of the matter, Towel Hub advises folks to scout for high-quality materials "such as 100% cotton, Egyptian cotton, or ring-spun cotton"

They scrutinized the weave, adding that: "A well-made woven strip should be tightly stitched and seamlessly integrated into the towel's design. Loose or thin strips can weaken over time, diminishing the towel's durability and overall lifespan. Always examine the quality of the weaving before making a bulk purchase to ensure that the towels will maintain their structure over time."

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