Fabric Shrinkage Calculator

Measure a test swatch before and after laundering. This tool calculates shrinkage in each direction and estimates how a larger cut of the same fabric may measure after the same wash-and-dry method.

Use this when: you can wash a test swatch the same way you plan to wash the finished project. The result describes that fabric and laundering method—not every fabric.

1. Measure beforeMark grain directions and record the unwashed swatch width and length.

2. Wash & measureUse the planned wash, dry, and pressing method, then measure the same directions.

3. Apply carefullyReview width, length, and area change before estimating a larger cut.

Measure before washing

Record the test swatch in both grain directions.

Width (inches)Length (inches)

Measure the same swatch after washing

Use the same wash, dry, and pressing method planned for the project.

Width (inches)Length (inches)

Optional: estimate a larger cut

See how those same shrinkage rates may affect a larger piece.

Original width (inches)Original length (inches)

Your test results

Based on your swatch

Width shrinkage

Length shrinkage

Area shrinkage

Estimated larger-cut size after washing

How to get a useful test

Cut a measurable swatch and record its dimensions before washing.
Launder it the same way you expect to launder the finished project.
Press it flat without stretching it back to its original size.
Measure the same width and length directions again.

Remember

This calculator reports dimensional change from your test. Different fabric lots, grain directions, wash temperatures, dryer settings, and larger pieces can behave differently.

Read: Should You Prewash Quilting Fabric?

Plan backward from a finished size

Enter the size you need after washing. We’ll estimate the minimum starting cut using your tested width and length shrinkage.

Needed finished width (inches)Needed finished length (inches)Usable fabric width (inches)

HUES recommended purchase

Your project plan

Name it, check the practical details, then copy or print a clean plan to take shopping or to your cutting table.

HUES PROJECT-SAFE

Project name

Before I cut or buy

I measured the actual quilt or swatch I confirmed usable fabric width I checked direction, repeat, and wash plan