From initial conception through to execution the quality of the manufacturing process is essential in ensuring the balloon looks right and performs well - especially in competition ballooning!
The Sloggi balloon is no exception. Lindstrand, the manufacturers of the Sloggi balloon pride themselves on being able to create bespoke balloon envelopes of all colours, shapes and sizes from standard balloons to giant flying dogs!
For Sloggi the balloon of choice for competition flying had to be the new Lindstrand X69 model for its speed and stability at top speeds.
The Sloggi balloon envelope design has been adapted from Sloggi's recent advertising campaigns entitled 'It's stringtime'. The adverts feature four 'string clad' women in different scenarios. The high profile campaigns have been featured in national magazine advertising as well as outdoor billboards.
Unlike most balloons where artwork is applied to the envelope fabric in the form of sticky backed fabric or as paintwork, the Sloggi design was printed directly onto the fabric. The fabric was sent out to a specialist printer and arrived back at Lindstrand as a number of rolls of printed panels.
Next came the cutting out, lining up and sewing together of all of the panels. The entire envelope manufacturing process is the responsibility of highly skilled seamstresses.
Burners are made in accordance with strict CAA regulations and testing procedures. They are often made of high quality stainless steel.
Once completed the Sloggi balloon had to undergo a test inflation to check for any faults or problems followed by a test flight before it could be certified to fly.
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