Warmer weather, longer days – it’s time for a dip in the sea, and we would like one of these excellent rash vests please. Created by MC Textiles for Bristol Girls Surf Club, these custom-made tops are a swell addition to any surfer’s wardrobe.
“We are a small business that makes rash vests and bibs at our workshop in Devon,” explains owner Maxine Singleton. “Everything is cut and sewn by hand and all printing done in-house. The business has been established for over 20 years but has been under new ownership since March 2024. Our customers range from community surf clubs, swimming and sailing clubs, watersport businesses, leisure clubs and even individuals looking for bespoke rashies for a family holidays.”
The surf club placed a small order of six rash vests in their two colour options: pink and blue. “As the customer wanted the rash vests in two specific colours and with their logo being multicoloured, sublimation printing was the most effective way to achieve the design. As the print design becomes part of the fabric, it remains vibrant and long-lasting and will not crack or fade over time.”
The team used a Roland Texart RT-640 to print onto transfer paper, Sappi’s Transjet Sportsline from Quality Print Services, which Maxine says is perfect for stretchy polyester. The design was printed using Kiian Digistar Hi Pro sublimation inks, purchased from Sabur.
Cut and sew rash vests production
“We cut the fabric panels that make up the rash vests first and then use our Sefa Slide 865 Pneumatic Heat Press to transfer the design to the fabric,” explains Maxine. “The panels are then sewn up into the finished rash vest. Every step of the process is undertaken in-house and we do not outsource our manufacturing.
“We use quality stretch fabrics purchased through the UK-appointed distributor for an Italian mill, and offer our products in brightly coloured nylons and polyester, including an eco 51% recycled polyester option which has excellent chlorine-resistance properties,” she adds.
The Bristol Girls Surf Club’s logo was designed by a member of the club’s community called Tilia Rand-Bell. “We wanted the logo to represent all the strong women we have in the club, show the colourfulness and vibrancy of Bristol, and give a nod to the city’s powerful skate scene,” says the club. “We’re really pleased to add these rash vests to our merchandise offering – finding other Bristol girls in the line-up has never been easier!”
@bristolgirls_surfclub
