How shrinkage is built into the size
Short answer: The pattern is made a little larger than the finished measurement should be. When the fabric shrinks in the first wash, the garment lands on the measurement in the chart. That is why a new piece can feel a little large before its first wash.
The allowance is calculated in advance
The factory usually knows how much the fabric shrinks from a test, and that figure is added to the pattern before cutting. The garment is therefore cut a little larger than the measurement you end up with. The idea is simple: the shrinking happens in the washing machine, and the result should be the measurement the chart promises you.
Why new clothes feel a little large
A new, unwashed garment has not yet shrunk to its finished measurement. It can therefore sit a little looser than you expected, and sleeves and legs can feel slightly long. That is normal and not a sign that you chose too large.
A wrong figure hits the customer
If the shrinkage is underestimated, the garment becomes too small after the first wash. If it is overestimated, it becomes too large. In both cases you are the one who feels the error, so it is a good idea to compare the chart with your own measurements. See offers for men.
Washing changes the measurements
The measurements in the chart are not just a number on a sheet of paper, because they change a little with washing. Wash temperature, drying and time all affect how much a fabric draws in. Follow the care label, so that the garment ends up at the size it was cut for.
Pre-shrinking is the other way
Some fabrics are treated so that they shrink at the factory instead of at your home. Then the allowance is smaller, and the garment changes little in the wash. You cannot always see which method was used, so ask the shop if it matters to you. See bamboo undershirt for men.
Underwear and close-fitting pieces
In close-fitting pieces such as undershirts and long johns, a centimetre more matters, because the piece sits close to the body. A garment that has shrunk too much pulls, and one that is too large folds. See bamboo long john for a piece where the fit matters all day.
Is the chart measured before or after washing
It should be the measurement after washing, because that is what you will live with. If the chart does not say, ask the shop before you order. If you do not know the answer, wash the garment once and measure it afterwards. Then you have your own numbers to work from.
Wash before wearing
It is a good habit to wash a new garment before you wear it. Then you know what size it ends up at, and you can judge the fit without guessing. Wash according to the label and dry as it says. If it fits badly, you have a better chance of an exchange when you know the true measurement.
How to choose your size
Choose by the chart measurements and expect the garment to end up on them after the first wash. If you are between two sizes, look at the fabric and at how close you want the fit. If unsure, measure a garment you already wear and compare it with the chart.
Frequently asked questions
Is the chart measured before or after washing?
It should be after washing. If it is not clear, ask the shop before you order, so you know which measurement you are comparing with.
Why is my new garment a little too large?
Because the shrinkage is built in, and it only happens when you wash. After the first wash the garment ends up at the measurement in the chart.
Should I wash before wearing?
It is a good habit. Then you know what size it ends up at, and you can judge the fit without a surprise afterwards.
