An investigation about the effects of knitted fabrics' dimensional change on the pattern size in garment production

Abstract

Dimensional change issue with knitted fabrics is considered as an important problem for manufacturers. As a result of relaxation on knitted fabrics, dimensional change problem occurs. Although dimensional stability test results of knitted fabrics given by the finishing department to garment manufacturers are within acceptable standards, all sorts of rolling and spreading processes increase internal tensions of fabrics. This situation causes customer complaints related with dimensional change issues. Garment manufacturers apply various solutions to avoid dimensional change problem. Before the manufacturing process, fabrics are unrolled and awaited in proper areas for relaxation; then, washing and ironing tests are done to determine pattern tolerance of the garments. In the present study, the effect of dimensional changes on various knitted fabrics to final product (t-shirt) was investigated. Standard width and length dimensions of the pattern tolerances for garment production is investigated. Finally, on the basis of our findings, suggestions were drawn concerning garment pattern tolerances in order to accomplish manufacturing within appropriate garment measurements.