PhotoCloth Brings New Look to Surfboard Art

Headline graphics, based out of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, called me to show off their new PhotoCloth product. I was a little skeptical. But I drove down to the beach to see what Jerry Anderson had created and I must admit, the boards on display were stunning. Believe me, I wasn't the only oohing and ahhing at the 'pop' coming off of these boards. Everyone nearby was drawn to the vibrancy and radiance that the colors displayed. Take a look for yourself. Here is some insight into Jerry's product.

Would you lay on this board?

What is the process called?

Jerry Anderson: It's called "PhotoCloth." It's a proprietary process where we (Headline Graphics) put digital art on surfboards using fiberglass cloth. It's an incredibly intense and vibrant display.

What are the benefits of PhotoCloth? Why wouldn't I just want someone to airbrush my board?

Jerry Anderson: Well airbrushing is fine, but PhotoCloth allows you to take any graphic image, any photo…pictures of your dog, your favorite wave, your kids, and put it on a surfboard using the highest resolution for superb depth of color and detail.

Other companies do this type of thing. I've seen some real nice tapestries on boards. Is this new?

Jerry Anderson: Well yes, for starters we use 100-year UV inks. That means your art won't fade. The pigments in the inks are solid. The depth and saturation will stay true and hold its form. The other thing is the vibrancy and brilliance of the color. I can't get into explaining the process too much because I've got some proprietary trade secrets. It is what they call in the industry 'photo realistic.' PhotoCloth is your photo in its exact replication.

How much does this cost?

Jerry Anderson: Minimum charge is $150 for a 10-foot piece of 4OZ cloth. So you can put two 5-foot pieces on your board. For a buck fifty you get both sides of your board done up beautifully.

You mentioned 4oz cloth, does this process need a special glass schedule?

Jerry Anderson: No. Any surfboard manufacturer can do this. To them it's just another piece of glass to saturate. You simply sandwich PhotoCloth between two pieces of cloth. It requires no special steps. There is no drama.

In your opinion what is the number one reason to have this done? Why would I want PhotoCloth on my board?

Jerry Anderson: Look, if you want something other than a clear board, the sky is the limit. You can create any thing your mind can dream up. The opportunity for kids to go hog wild with designs and have fun is right here. I think that is the real advantage. Your board becomes an extension of your personality on a much deeper level. You aren't telling somebody what you want and crossing your fingers. You're giving the board maker exactly what will appear on your board.