Fabric width sounds simple, but on the loom it connects to reed space, warp ends and shrinkage. Here is how it fits together.
Reed space vs finished width
The reed space is the width the warp occupies in the reed. The fabric then contracts in weaving (weft crimp) and again in finishing, so the finished width is narrower than the reed space. Planning backwards from finished width is key.
Width and warp ends
Total warp ends = EPI × reed width. Change the width and you change the number of ends — and the yarn quantity. Work it out with the ends & picks calculator and plan the reed with the reed count calculator.
Don’t forget shrinkage
Allow for width loss in finishing — use the shrinkage allowance calculator so the finished width lands on spec.
Converting units
Loom widths mix inches, cm and metres — our length converter keeps it straight.
Planning a woven width? We supply warp and weft yarn to match.
More in our yarn guides and buyer tools.