About Fabric Shrinkage

I ran a test on the unbleached cotton I use for all my muslins (aka mock-ups), and this is the result.

As you can see in this photo, the 3-metre piece I used (actually a bit over, at 119.5 inches) measured 63.5 inches wide (from selvage edge to selvage edge). 

After washing in hot water and drying at the hottest temperature (to maximize shrinkage), then ironing with steam, my piece ended up measuring 60 inches wide.

Yes, there is a zigzag on the raw edge.

As for the length, I ended up with 109.5 inches. 

Total shrinkage: 5.5% on the width and 7.6% on the length. 

Click to enlarge

The third photo shows how open the weave is as it comes off the bolt. 

I wanted this information because I sometimes use the muslin for other projects that would eventually get washed.

Note: I usually purchase this fabric by the bolt at Fabricville (as it is known here in Québec, Fabricland elsewhere.)