Fabric Hand Feel How It Changes with Construction and Elastane Content
Fabric Hand Feel does not stay constant when construction changes. Understanding the direction of change helps during development.
Effect of knit structure
Loop length and density move results first, usually before any yarn change is made. 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.
Effect of elastane content
More elastane raises recovery but changes the value measured by handle measurement systems, so retest after any blending change. 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.
Effect of finishing
Heat setting and softeners shift results, which explains differences between a hand sample and bulk. 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.
Typical range
Working values stay around scored panel or handle meter for mainstream activewear. 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.
Development advice
Change one variable at a time, then verify against handle measurement systems before moving to the next sample round. 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.
