Distortion Standard
International testing guidelines define the methods for determining the bow and skew of woven and knitted fabrics. The textile industry adopts iso 13015 to establish a globally harmonized procedure for measuring geometric distortion in fabric rolls. This standard provides clear instructions for calculating yarn displacement relative to the fabric’s length or width.
It applies to finished, ready-to-cut fabrics, but is not used for raw yarn or fibres.
Test Procedure
The fabric is laid flat on a smooth surface without tension for conditioning before measurement. Technicians use a straightedge to align with the weft or course direction and measure the maximum deviation. The resulting values are expressed as a percentage of the fabric’s usable width.
This ensures that the results are comparable across different laboratories.
Factory Application
Garment factories use these standard measurements to decide if a fabric roll can be cut without causing garment twisting. If the skew exceeds the limits set by the standard, the fabric is rejected or sent back for re-finishing. This pre-cut check avoids costly waste in the sewing room.
Mill Compliance
Milling facilities must configure their finishing equipment to meet the requirements of the standard. Accurate control of the tentering frame prevents the development of excessive skew. This compliance is essential for maintaining relationships with high-end apparel brands.
