Dimensional Loss
Irreversible reduction in the physical dimensions of a woven textile occurs when the internal stresses locked into the yarn during spinning and weaving are released. Measuring fabric relaxation shrinkage involves wetting the material so that the fibers can return to their natural, unstressed state. This change is calculated as a percentage of the original dry length and width.
Fibre Relaxation
Internal tensions are imparted to flax fibers during the high-tension drafting and winding stages of wet spinning and loom insertion. When the linen fabric is subsequently laundered or steamed, fabric relaxation shrinkage occurs as the swollen fibers expand and shorten. This shrinkage differs from progressive shrinkage because it typically finishes after the first few washing cycles.
Standardized Testing
Standardized laboratory procedures are used to evaluate how a fabric will behave during commercial garment laundering. In these tests, specimens are marked with reference points before being subjected to controlled washing and flat-bed pressing. The final distance between the marks is compared to the initial distance to establish the exact fabric relaxation shrinkage.
Buyers use these figures to calculate the pattern allowances needed for garment manufacturing, ensuring that the finished shirts or trousers do not shrink out of their designated size categories. Control of this dimensional shift is a primary criterion for buyer acceptance.