textile Calculator

Fabric Shrinkage Calculator

Calculate warp and weft wash shrinkage percentages and garment pattern adjustment factors.

Audited by UniqCalc Methodology Team • Formula Checked • Free & No Registration Required

Verified Mathematical Model & Formulation

Shrinkage (%) = [(Before Wash - After Wash) / Before Wash] × 100
Pattern Adjustment Factor = 100 / (100 - Shrinkage %)

Calculates dimensional relaxation change resulting from wet processing, mechanical tumbling, or steam pressing, providing pattern makers with the exact multiplier needed in CAD software.

Configurable Parameters & Standard Units

  • Original Benchmark Length (cm): (Default: 50 cm)
  • After-Wash Length (cm): (Default: 47.5 cm)
  • Original Benchmark Width (cm): (Default: 50 cm)
  • After-Wash Width (cm): (Default: 48 cm)

Standard Worked Example & Practical Verification

Scenario: A 50 cm length square measures 47.0 cm after industrial laundering.

Calculated Solution
6.0% Shrinkage (Enlarge CAD Pattern by 6.38%)

Practical Takeaway: Cut patterns 1.0638 times longer so garments finish at target spec after washing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an acceptable fabric shrinkage tolerance?

For knit fabrics, ±5% is standard commercial tolerance. For woven fabrics, ±2% to ±3% is standard after sanforization or garment washing.