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3 months ago
An elegant cream and espresso Instagram carousel cover from Sewing Planet titled “Why Fabrics Shrink: What Every Dressmaker Should Know.” A stack of folded fabrics sits beside a close-up illustration of fabric fibres, explaining that fibres swell, relax and change shape during washing and drying. The slide introduces the topic of fabric shrinkage and encourages viewers to swipe to learn more.
An educational infographic explaining the four main reasons fabrics shrink: water, heat, movement and fibre type. Each section includes simple line illustrations showing how fibres change before and after washing or drying. The guide explains that natural fibres generally shrink more than synthetic fibres and reminds dressmakers that shrinkage is a normal characteristic of many fabrics.
A cream-coloured infographic showing four practical ways to reduce fabric shrinkage before sewing. Tips include pre-washing fabric correctly, using the same wash method intended for the finished garment, allowing fabric to dry completely and measuring it again before cutting. Decorative sewing illustrations reinforce the professional dressmaking theme.
A decision tree infographic helping dressmakers decide whether to pre-wash fabric before cutting. Cotton, linen and viscose are recommended for pre-washing, while wool depends on the fabric and silk should always be tested first. The guide encourages testing a small sample whenever there is uncertainty.
A motivational closing slide featuring folded fabrics, dressmaking scissors and a tape measure. Large editorial typography reads, “Fabric preparation takes minutes. Re-making a garment takes hours.” The slide encourages viewers to save the guide for future sewing projects and reinforces the value of preparing fabric before cutting.
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Posted On: July 12th 2026, 10:33 pm
Will your fabric shrink after you make your garment?

The honest answer is… maybe.

Different fibres react differently to water, heat and agitation. Knowing which fabrics to pre-wash—and which ones to test first—can save you from one of the most frustrating dressmaking mistakes.

In this guide you’ll learn:
✔ Why fabrics shrink
✔ How to reduce shrinkage
✔ Which fabrics should be pre-washed
✔ Which fabrics need extra care

Save this carousel before your next sewing project—you’ll be glad you did.
Comments (1)
sewingplanetuk 3 months ago

sewingplanetuk

Which fabric has caught you out the most after washing? 👇🧵 Cotton, linen and viscose almost always go into the wash before I cut them. Wool depends on the fabric, and with silk I always test a small piece first. 📌 Save this guide so you don’t have to remember it the next time you’re preparing fabric

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