This article from a Finnish source discusses an often overlooked detail in towel design: the dobby border. This specific woven detail, found on the narrower edges of many towels, serves the critical function of enhancing the towel's lifespan and usability. The dobby border is woven using special looms equipped with a dobby mechanism, which creates the various intricate patterns typically seen on towels.

The dobby border provides reinforcement at the ends of the towel, preventing fraying and unraveling, which ultimately extends the towel's durability. Additionally, it helps keep the towel straight after washing, minimizing edge curling, which is a common problem. This attention to detail not only improves the functional aspects of towels but also adds a touch of sophistication and luxury to their appearance, making them more appealing in retail.

Particularly in environments where towels are used frequently and washed often, such as in hotels and spas, the dobby border plays a crucial role. Without this border, towels are likely to deteriorate more quickly, leading to increased replacement costs for businesses relying on high-quality linens. The article emphasizes the significance of design choices in everyday objects, highlighting how such small features can have wide-reaching implications for both consumers and manufacturers.