Lab tests: what to ask for

For large quantities, or when your brand and safety are on the line, you need numbers from a lab, not impressions.

Common tests

• Shrinkage after washing and drying.
• Colourfastness: to washing, rubbing, perspiration and light.
• Pilling and abrasion resistance, including the Martindale test.
• Tensile and tear strength.
• Fibre composition and whether it matches the label.

How to deal with a lab

• Ask the supplier for a test report first and check the lab name and the date.
• For large orders use an independent lab and choose the tests that matter to you.
• Write the acceptable limits for each test in the purchase order.

Illustrative limits

You might agree that shrinkage must not exceed 3%. That is an illustrative figure; real limits depend on the fabric, the standard and the market, so agree them with the supplier.

Exercise

Choose three tests that matter for your piece, write the acceptable limit for each, and decide who will run them and when.