FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2002

Glen Raven Introduces New Graphics System For Sunbrella® and Dickson® Fabrics

Glen Raven Custom Fabrics, LLC has introduced a new system for applying graphics to Sunbrella® fabrics utilizing 3M™ Scotchcal™ ElectroCut™ Graphic Films. Key features and benefits of the new system include ease of use, consistent quality and a five-year limited warranty from Glen Raven, which manufactures and markets Sunbrella® and Dickson® fabrics.

“This new system enables sign shops to create sophisticated graphic applications on Glen Raven’s acrylic fabrics, offering customers a new high-quality, soft sign option,” said Gary Childres, owner of Childres Canvas Products and the creative force behind the new system. “The Sunbrella® Graphics System’s SGS 100 graphics machine is affordable, easy to operate and designed to provide consistently high-quality results.”

Childres, a third generation awning entrepreneur in Dallas, developed the system for his business and presented the concept to Glen Raven and graphic films producer 3M Commercial Graphics Division.

“The Sunbrella® Graphics System takes graphics for Glen Raven’s acrylic fabrics from art to science,” said Harry Gobble, marketing director for Glen Raven Custom Fabrics. “This technology offers sign fabricators an opportunity to grow their businesses through the use of Sunbrella® and Dickson® fabrics, which are recognized for their woven, fabric look and long-term durability.”

The Sunbrella® Graphics System’s SGS 100 is a compact unit that consists of a vacuum pump and heat lamps. Glen Raven acrylic fabric is placed inside on a flat surface and 3M Scotchcal ElectroCut Graphic Film is positioned on top of the fabric. After the top is secured, the vacuum system pulls the fabric and film tightly together and the heat generated by the lamps melds the two components together for crisp, long-lasting graphics.

User-friendly, automated controls regulate heat and bonding time and assure consistent, high-quality results. Training time is minimal and complete instructions and training are provided with the system, which supports complex, multi-color graphic and logo applications. The SGS 100 also carries Underwriters Laboratories certification.

Before the Sunbrella® Graphics System, many sign shops had not offered Sunbrella® and Dickson® fabrics as sign materials because existing processes for decorating them are time consuming and complex.

“Our new system opens up an opportunity for profitable growth and responds to growing demands for a woven, soft sign look,” Childres said. “We have proven this system in actual field operations over a number of years, and we’re excited to offer this technology to the entire industry.”

In addition to Childres’ field experience, Glen Raven has tested and verified the graphic system’s performance. The Sunbrella® Graphics System is the only graphics system on the market that carries a limited five-year warranty backed by Glen Raven. This warranty covers the fabric and the 3M Scotchcal ElectroCut Graphic Film when applied using the SGS 100 graphics machine following operational specifications.

The Glen Raven Custom Fabrics’ sales force is bringing this new graphics system to market. For more information, contact your regional Glen Raven sales manager or call 800-788-4413.

Glen Raven Custom Fabrics’
Phone: 800-788-4413