Fabric Hand Feel Test Methods and Acceptable Limits
Fabric Hand Feel is verified through handle measurement systems. Knowing how the method works avoids rejecting fabric that actually meets the requirement.
Method overview
handle measurement systems defines sample size, conditioning and calculation, so values are comparable only within the same revision. Working figures for Fabric Hand Feel normally sit around scored panel or handle meter in mainstream production. Note handle measurement systems on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Result interpretation
Read the value together with construction notes; scored panel or handle meter is only meaningful for similar fabrics. Record elastane content alongside Fabric Hand Feel, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside scored panel or handle meter usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
Typical limits
Buyers commonly write scored panel or handle meter with a stated tolerance, then verify against handle measurement systems. Keeping reference values for Fabric Hand Feel lets suppliers quote without extra sampling rounds. Ask for conditioning details together with handle measurement systems, since both affect the reading.
Sources of variation
Conditioning time, operator technique and shade all influence the result. Working figures for Fabric Hand Feel normally sit around scored panel or handle meter in mainstream production. Note handle measurement systems on the tech pack so nobody tests against an older revision.
Documentation
Record the standard revision on every report, because older versions can differ from current practice. Record elastane content alongside Fabric Hand Feel, because blends shift the measured value. A result outside scored panel or handle meter usually points to process drift rather than to the fibre itself.
