How much does Essex Linen shrink?

Shared on March 26, 2012 by in Sewing

We have all been curious as to how much Essex Linen will shrink. Time for a test.
One yard of Essex Linen was cut. The wash cycle set to regular cold. The dryer placed on the regular setting. No special care was taken.

Result – 1 inch shrinkage on all side. The color is still lush and vibrant.

Washed, ironed and ready for quilting!

Happy sewing!
~Diana

 

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8 Comments - Leave a comment -
8 Responses to How much does Essex Linen shrink?
  1. Debbie-Esch House Quilts
    March 26, 2012 | 3:25 pm

    That’s really great to know – thanks!

  2. Melissa
    March 26, 2012 | 5:13 pm

    When I started using Essex Linen, I sent an email to Rashida Coleman-Hale (http://iheartlinen.typepad.com/) and asked her the same thing! :)

    I find it interesting that you used cold water wash. Here’s what Rashida said:
    I’d prewash for sure. Wash it on a hot temperature to get the maximum shrinkage out. Then tumble dry on a low to medium setting. Take it out while it’s still slightly damp and iron it (steam setting) to get the wrinkles out. Linen can withstand high temperatures and really responds nicely to the iron when it’s slightly damp.

    (I hope you don’t mind that I hijacked your post!)

    Thanks for your post, though! It’s really helpful! :)

  3. elsa
    March 27, 2012 | 7:53 am

    Really good to know ~ especially since I rarely pre-wash. Thanks so much.

  4. erica K
    March 27, 2012 | 4:52 pm

    Thanks! That’s great to know. :)

  5. Terri Hume
    March 27, 2012 | 5:26 pm

    That Essex Linen fabric is gorgeous……if I get my hands on some $ very soon I’ll be having me some of that! lol

  6. MarciaW
    March 31, 2012 | 2:50 pm

    Thanks for publishing the specs on your test – for linen will remember to wash and dry first as we like our quilts to be washable.

  7. Beth T.
    March 31, 2012 | 8:48 pm

    Great information–thanks. Those Essex linens are so tempting.

  8. Melanie
    April 6, 2012 | 6:53 am

    Thanks for the info, this linen is just beautiful!