Keepin' It Cool - What Type of Coolie Works Best?

Confused about the types of beverage insulators out there? Wonder what's the difference between scuba and neoprene? Wonder why they call it scuba when diving suits are made out of neoprene?

Here's a quick rundown on the types of coolie materials commonly used:

Scuba: Open cell polyurethane foam with a polyester fabric on one side and tricot on the other.

Neoprene: Closed cell rubber-based product with polyester or nylon fabric on both sides.

The photo shows the scuba on the left, neoprene on the right.

Now, what does that mean? In a nutshell, open cell has more air pockets and is thus, less insulating. Since closed cell is much denser, it blocks transfer of heat much better, keeping your beverage cooler for longer.

So why choose scuba over neoprene? Price. It was developed as a cheaper alternative to neoprene, but the tradeoff is it won't insulate as well.

So when choosing an insulator, the decision is yours – less expensive, but won't perform as well, or spend a little more for a better product.

Boost Your Color -- With TruColor Imprints

We just met with our supplier rep from Starline who showed us a great new imprinting process they are offering -- TruColor. It's a new technology for printing vibrant, beautiful color directly on drinkware and other selected products. Normally, when printing drinkware, there can be many issues, usually related to multi-color imprints. TruColor eliminates those issues and creates a truly custom, professional-looking item that promotes your brand like never before.

TruColor Imprints Stand Out on a Variety of Items

No borders, no registration issues, fine photographic detail with a slightly raised feel to the imprint, lends to a very high-end product.

Instead of drinkware that sports a simple one color logo, amp it up by adding a full wrap photo to showcase your product, services, location, or event. The flat matte surface of these black vacuum tumblers makes a great background for any artwork, especially when paired with a colored band around the top.

Full Wrap Available – Get Creative!

Give us a call if you'd like to see some ideas showcasing your brand using this new method. We'll get creative, do some brainstorming, and come up with a eye-catching virtual proof for your review.

View items which are available for this printing process:  Click Here

Tumblers 101

We've all seen those popular tumblers – you know, the ones that are usually acrylic with a screw-on lid and straw? 

Did you ever wonder what the difference is between the price points you see and the product materials? 

Well, even if you didn't wonder, here's a quick run-down on what to look for when shopping for tumblers!






Material
Tumblers are made in a variety of materials, which leads to the wide price ranges you find them advertised. Keep in mind that a very low cost tumbler may be made of materials that don't hold up well and will warp or chip easily.

Polypropylene - this is the low-cost alternative to the other available materials. Normally these tumblers will have a snap on lid and the material is softer and more flexible than the others. It also does not hold up in the high heat of a dishwasher and will warp.
16oz Price Range:  $1.89 - $2.50

Acrylic - a strong, clear material, but still prone to chipping if dropped, but is less prone to scratching than polycarbonate. 16oz Price Range:  $2.99 - $4.50


Polycarbonate - the biggest item to note on polycarbonates is that they contain BPA - a chemical which can be toxic. Most manufacturers have quit making drinkware using polycarbonate due to this. Polycarbonate is extremely resistant to breakage and is often marketed as "unbreakable." However, it is easy to scratch and will yellow over time.16oz Price Range:  Generally not available due to BPA issues


SAN - this plastic is an acrylic blend and is more stable and durable for hot and cold liquids as compared to acrylic. Acrylic can craze when switching between extreme temps, while SAN will not. 16oz Price Range:  $5.50 - $7.50


Tritan™ - this newer material offers clear advantages over polycarbonate and other materials. It's BPA free, won't add odor or taste to liquids, is dishwasher safe, resists degradation, cracking and has great clarity. It is, however, the most expensive option.16oz Price Range:  $8.50 - $10.50

Double or Single Wall
Single wall tumblers will be less expensive, but you trade cost for performance. With a double wall tumbler, you add more insulation, keeping your drink cooler, longer, while also preventing the walls from sweating when ice or very cold drinks are used. If you've ever had a drink sweat and drip on your desk, you'll know why double wall tumblers are much nicer to use.

The Creative J staff can help you navigate through all the intricacies of drinkware. Just give us a call and we'll help you find the perfect tumbler for your budget and needs.