You’ve chosen your colors and patterns — now comes the question every first-time customer asks: What fabric should I use? Don’t worry. In this guide, we’ll help you find the perfect material based on your needs and goals.
The most popular fabrics for custom tea towels are cotton and linen. Each has its own texture, weight, and printing effect. Understanding their differences will help you create towels that not only look great — but also feel right.
Let’s explore how each material performs and which one suits your project best.
Why Does Fabric Matter in Tea Towel Design?
Fabric affects everything — how your towel looks, feels, absorbs, and even how the print shows up. A beautiful design can be ruined by poor fabric choice.
Choosing the right fabric ensures your tea towel not only looks professional, but also works well in real use.
Always think about function first — is it for drying, gift display, or branding?
What Are the Most Common Fabrics for Tea Towels?
The two most popular choices are:
- 100% Cotton – Soft, absorbent, and great for everyday use. Works well with digital printing.
- Linen or Cotton-Linen Blend – Textured, elegant, and naturally anti-bacterial. Perfect for gifts or premium products.
Some clients also request canvas or waffle weave, but cotton and linen are the best choices for both functionality and appearance.
Related Tip:
If you’re unsure, start with 100% cotton. It’s safe, reliable, and ideal for first-time designs.
How Do Printing Effects Differ by Fabric Type?
- Cotton gives a clean and sharp print. Colors appear bright and accurate, especially with digital reactive printing.
- Linen adds a textured, organic feel. Colors may appear softer or slightly muted due to the weave.
Related Tip:
Detailed illustrations or bold graphics look best on smooth cotton. Minimalist or rustic designs shine on linen.
Which Fabric Is Best for My Brand or Purpose?
Think about your main goal:
- For kitchen use or practical resale: 100% cotton is affordable, useful, and customer-friendly.
- For gift sets, museum shops, or art branding: linen or blend offers premium texture and a high-end look.
Related Tip:
You can always request a fabric swatch before ordering — or ask BLANC for photos and recommendations based on your artwork.
The right fabric makes all the difference. Whether cotton or linen, we’ll help you choose the best match for your design, function, and customer.
