Yes, cotton yarn does shrink. It is one of the known characteristics of cotton fibers, particularly when subjected to washing.
Cotton yarn items, like fabrics or finished projects, are prone to shrinkage when washed. This means that after laundering, they may appear crumpled and their dimensions can change.
How Much Does Cotton Yarn Shrink?
The amount of shrinkage can vary, but there are typical ranges observed. Based on reference information, shrinkage primarily occurs during the washing process.
On average, you can expect the following shrinkage percentages for cotton:
| Direction | Average Shrinkage |
|---|---|
| In width | 3% |
| In length | 6% |
As the table shows, cotton tends to shrink more significantly in length than in width. This differential shrinkage is an important factor to consider when working with or caring for items made from cotton yarn.
Understanding these typical shrinkage rates is essential for anyone creating or maintaining textiles made from cotton yarn, as it directly impacts the final size and appearance of the finished product after washing.
