Pre-shrinkage testing helps identify how woven fusible interlining may change size after exposure to the conditions it will face during production. Instead of discovering dimensional problems after bulk fusing, manufacturers can test a small sample first. This makes the test useful for understanding how the material behaves before committing it to a larger production run.
Dimensional stability refers to the ability of a material to maintain its size and shape. When the interlining and outer fabric change size by different amounts, the bonded area can develop problems such as puckering, rippling or distortion. The result depends on the material, outer fabric, garment construction, processing conditions and finishing methods.
Testing is particularly relevant when using a new interlining batch, changing the outer fabric, modifying garment construction or introducing a different finishing method. Heat, moisture, washing, steaming and pressing can all form part of the exposure that needs to be considered. High-volume production and dimension-critical garments also increase the importance of checking the material before bulk work.
A simple test involves taking a representative sample, recording its original dimensions, exposing it to the relevant production process and measuring it again after it has settled. The important point is that shrinkage is not a universal characteristic of every woven interlining. Each material and process combination should be evaluated on its own.
