A shade that looks right in one lot and slightly off in the next causes rejected fabric and delays. Most shade problems can be reduced with a clear process.
Start with a clear standard
- Provide a physical reference. A colour card, fabric swatch or approved lab dip is better than a name or a screen image.
- Fix the light source. Compare shades under the same standard light, because colours can match in one light and differ in another.
- Agree a tolerance. Decide how much variation is acceptable and how it will be measured.
Plan the dye lots
- Order in fewer lots. Fabric made from yarn of one dye lot will match itself best.
- Track lot numbers. Keep the dye lot number on every carton and on the fabric records.
- Do not mix lots in one piece. If you must, blend them in a planned way.
Check before you use it
Ask for a shade report for each lot and compare it to your approved standard. Knit or weave a small swatch before you run the full lot. If you work with dark shades, also ask about colour fastness to washing and rubbing.
Read about dyed yarn or request a shade sample to start.
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