What are the best practices for fabric quality control and inspection to avoid shrinkage issues?

1 Fabric selection

The first step to avoid shrinkage issues is to choose the right fabric for your product and application. Different types of fabrics have different shrinkage rates and behaviors, depending on their fiber composition, yarn structure, fabric construction, dyeing, and finishing processes. For example, natural fibers like cotton, wool, and linen tend to shrink more than synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and acrylic. Knitted fabrics tend to shrink more than woven fabrics, and fabrics with high twist or density tend to shrink more than fabrics with low twist or density. Therefore, you should select fabrics that have low shrinkage potential, or that have been pre-shrunk or stabilized by the fabric supplier, or that match the intended use and care of the product.

2 Fabric testing

The second step to avoid shrinkage issues is to test the fabric before production to verify its quality and performance. Fabric testing involves measuring and evaluating various properties and characteristics of the fabric, such as weight, thickness, color, strength, abrasion, pilling, flammability, and of course, shrinkage. Fabric testing can be done in-house or by a third-party laboratory, using standard methods and equipment. Fabric testing can help you identify any defects, variations, or non-compliances in the fabric quality, and take corrective actions if needed. Fabric testing can also help you determine the optimal cutting, sewing, and finishing parameters for the fabric, and provide reliable data for quality assurance and customer satisfaction.

3 Fabric storage

The third step to avoid shrinkage issues is to store the fabric properly before and during production. Fabric storage involves keeping the fabric in a clean, dry, and ventilated environment, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, moisture, dust, dirt, insects, and rodents. Fabric storage also involves handling the fabric carefully and gently, avoiding excessive tension, compression, stretching, folding, or creasing. Fabric storage can help you prevent the fabric from losing or gaining moisture, which can affect its dimensions and stability. Fabric storage can also help you preserve the fabric quality and appearance, and prevent any damage or deterioration.

4 Fabric cutting

The fourth step to avoid shrinkage issues is to cut the fabric accurately and efficiently. Fabric cutting involves marking and separating the fabric into pieces according to the pattern and specifications of the product. Fabric cutting can be done manually or by machines, using different tools and techniques. Fabric cutting can affect the shrinkage behavior of the fabric, as it exposes the cut edges to air, moisture, and stress, and disrupts the fabric structure and alignment. Therefore, you should cut the fabric with precision and care, following the grain direction, avoiding distortion, minimizing waste, and securing the cut edges with appropriate methods.

5 Fabric sewing

The fifth step to avoid shrinkage issues is to sew the fabric properly and consistently. Fabric sewing involves joining the fabric pieces together with stitches, seams, and other attachments, using different machines and settings. Fabric sewing can also affect the shrinkage behavior of the fabric, as it introduces tension, friction, and heat to the fabric, and alters its shape and flexibility. Therefore, you should sew the fabric with skill and attention, choosing the right needle, thread, stitch type, stitch length, stitch width, seam allowance, seam finish, and seam direction for the fabric. You should also avoid overlocking, puckering, stretching, or pulling the fabric during sewing.

6 Fabric finishing

The sixth step to avoid shrinkage issues is to finish the fabric appropriately and carefully. Fabric finishing involves applying various treatments and processes to the fabric after sewing, such as pressing, steaming, ironing, washing, drying, bleaching, dyeing, printing, coating, or applying chemicals. Fabric finishing can improve the appearance, performance, and durability of the fabric, but it can also cause shrinkage if not done correctly. Therefore, you should finish the fabric with caution and control, following the fabric care instructions, using the right equipment and conditions, and avoiding excessive heat, moisture, or pressure.