Cotton Flannel Shrinkage Calculator

INCH

Measure your test swatch before and after washing.

Original Width

Original Length

Final Width

Final Length

Width Loss

9.00%

Length Loss

9.00%

Total Area Loss

17.19%

Original

-17%

Length Loss

Most natural fibers shrink when first washed. Calculating this rate helps you buy enough fabric and avoid garments that don't fit.

Cut a 10x10 cm (or 4x4 inch) square. Wash and dry it exactly as you plan to treat the final garment. Measure again.

Fabric can shrink differently along the grain (length) vs cross-grain (width). Always measure both directions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The loose weave and brushed fibers relax significantly when wet. Hot drying also agitates the fibers, causing them to draw up tighter.

Cotton typically shrinks 2-5%. Calculate exact fabric loss for quilting cotton, voile, or canvas to ensure you buy enough yardage.

Linen fibers relax significantly when washed. Expect 5-10% shrinkage loss. Plan your yardage accordingly to avoid shortage.

Rayon is notorious for shrinking. Calculate the high loss rate (often 10%+) before cutting your pattern.

Wool can felt and shrink dramatically if agitated. Use this to calculate loss for felting projects or pre-treatment.

Raw denim and heavy cotton twills often shrink significantly in length. Expect 10-12% shrinkage for unsanforized denim.

Silk, especially Crepe de Chine, can shrink 5-8% when washed. Dry cleaning minimizes this, but hand washing changes the texture.

Polyester is very stable. Shrinkage is usually minimal (under 2%), but high heat drying can cause permanent creases or damage.