Hey there! I'm a supplier of knitted interlining, and I know how frustrating it can be when your knitted interlining shrinks. It can mess up your projects and lead to all sorts of headaches. But don't worry, I've got some tips and tricks to help you prevent that from happening.
First off, let's understand why knitted interlining shrinks in the first place. Knitted interlining is made from yarns that are looped together. When exposed to heat, moisture, or mechanical stress, these loops can tighten up, causing the fabric to shrink. The main culprits are usually improper washing, drying, or pressing.
Choosing the Right Knitted Interlining
One of the first steps in preventing shrinkage is choosing the right type of knitted interlining for your project. We offer a variety of options, like Tricot Fusible Interlining, Bump Interlining Fabric, and Thermal Interlining Fabric. Each type has its own characteristics, and some are more resistant to shrinkage than others.
For example, tricot fusible interlining is known for its stability. It's a great choice when you need a firm base that won't shrink easily. Bump interlining fabric, on the other hand, has a bit more stretch but still can be managed well if you follow the right procedures. Thermal interlining fabric is designed to keep you warm, and it also has good shrinkage resistance if treated properly.
Pre - washing the Knitted Interlining
Before you start using the knitted interlining in your project, it's a good idea to pre - wash it. This helps to remove any sizing or chemicals that might cause shrinkage later on. Here's how you do it:
- Fill a sink or a basin with lukewarm water. Avoid using hot water, as it can cause the fabric to shrink right away.
- Add a mild detergent. Don't use harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the fabric.
- Gently swish the interlining in the water for a few minutes. Don't rub or wring it, as this can distort the fabric.
- Drain the soapy water and rinse the interlining thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water until all the detergent is gone.
- To dry, lay the interlining flat on a clean towel. Roll up the towel to remove excess water, and then let it air dry. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can cause shrinkage.
Proper Cutting and Handling
When you're cutting the knitted interlining, make sure to use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter. Dull blades can pull on the fabric, which might lead to distortion and potential shrinkage later. Also, be careful not to stretch the fabric while cutting. Lay it flat on a cutting mat and use a ruler or a pattern to guide your cuts.
During handling, try to keep the interlining as flat as possible. If you need to fold it, do it gently along the grain of the fabric. Avoid crumpling or bunching it up, as this can cause the loops in the fabric to tighten and lead to shrinkage.
Fusing the Interlining Correctly
If you're using a fusible knitted interlining, fusing it correctly is crucial to prevent shrinkage. Here are the steps:
- Pre - heat your iron to the appropriate temperature. Check the manufacturer's instructions on the interlining for the recommended temperature. Using too high a temperature can cause the fabric to shrink and the adhesive to burn.
- Place a pressing cloth between the iron and the interlining. This helps to distribute the heat evenly and protects the fabric from direct contact with the hot iron.
- Press the iron firmly but gently on the interlining for a few seconds at a time. Don't move the iron around too much, as this can cause the interlining to shift and potentially shrink.
- Let the interlining cool completely before handling it. This allows the adhesive to set properly.
Storage of Knitted Interlining
Proper storage is also important in preventing shrinkage. Store your knitted interlining in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you're storing it for a long time, roll it up instead of folding it. Folding can cause creases that might lead to shrinkage over time. You can use a cardboard tube to roll the interlining around for better support.
Maintenance After Use
Once your project with the knitted interlining is complete, how you maintain it will also affect shrinkage. When washing the finished item, follow the same gentle washing procedures as you did for the pre - washing of the interlining. Use lukewarm water and a mild detergent.
If you need to iron the item, again, use a pressing cloth and the appropriate temperature. Avoid over - ironing, as too much heat can cause shrinkage.
Conclusion
Preventing knitted interlining from shrinking is all about taking the right steps from the very beginning. By choosing the right type of interlining, pre - washing it, handling it properly during cutting and fusing, storing it correctly, and maintaining it well after use, you can ensure that your knitted interlining stays in good shape and doesn't shrink.
If you're interested in purchasing high - quality knitted interlining for your projects, feel free to reach out to us. We're here to help you find the perfect interlining for your needs and provide you with all the support you need to make your projects a success.
References
- Textile Manufacturing Handbook
- Guide to Interlining Materials
