Shrinkage

Definition

The reduction in fabric or garment dimensions after washing and drying, expressed as a percentage. Cotton knits commonly shrink 3-8% if not pre-treated. In manufacturing, shrinkage is managed through pre-shrinking processes (sanforisation for wovens, compacting for knits) and by building shrinkage allowances into patterns. Our tech packs specify target shrinkage, and incoming fabric is tested before entering production.