PC yarn is a “poly-cotton” blend in which polyester is usually the majority fibre — commonly 65% polyester and 35% cotton. It is one of the most widely used blends in apparel for its strength, easy care and value.
What PC yarn is
PC combines polyester’s strength, wrinkle-resistance and low cost with cotton’s breathability and comfort. The standard 65/35 poly/cotton ratio gives durable, shape-holding fabric that dries fast and needs little ironing — ideal for high-wash, high-wear uses.
PC vs CVC vs 100% cotton
| Option | Feel | Durability | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100% cotton | Softest, breathable | Good | Varies with cotton |
| CVC (cotton-majority) | Cotton-like | Higher | Moderate |
| PC (poly-majority) | Smooth, crisp | Highest | Lowest |
Where PC is used
PC is the go-to for uniforms, workwear, institutional wear, value t-shirts and shirting — anywhere durability, easy care and price matter. It also takes disperse dyeing well for bright, fast colours.
We supply PC yarn across ratios and counts. Compare with CVC and PV yarn, or tell us your requirement on our contact page. AA Enterprises, Delhi, since 1974.
What PC yarn is and why it dominates
PC is polyester-cotton: a blend spun from both fibres, with polyester stated first. PC 65/35 means 65 per cent polyester and 35 per cent cotton by weight.
It is the workhorse of Indian shirting and uniform fabric for one reason. Polyester brings strength, wrinkle recovery, dimensional stability and low cost; cotton brings breathability, absorbency and a natural handle. The blend is a deliberate compromise that outperforms either fibre alone for hard-wearing everyday fabric.
Common ratios and what they are for
| Ratio | Character | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| PC 65/35 | Strong, easy care, economical | Uniforms, institutional shirting |
| PC 52/48 | Softer, more breathable | Better-quality shirting |
| CVC 60/40 | Cotton-rich, natural handle | Retail shirting, casual wear |
| PC 80/20 | Very stable, lowest cost | Workwear, industrial fabric |
| PC 70/30 | Balanced, widely available | General shirting and bottoms |
Note the convention: when cotton is the majority fibre the blend is usually called CVC (chief value cotton) rather than PC.
The dyeing consequence buyers underestimate
Polyester and cotton take completely different dyes. Polyester needs disperse dye at high temperature; cotton needs reactive or vat dye. A PC blend therefore needs a two-bath process, which costs more and takes longer than dyeing either fibre alone.
It also creates a specific risk: if the two fibres do not take colour to matching depth, the fabric shows a heathered or two-tone effect. Sometimes that is the desired look. More often it is a rejection.
Specify the shade tolerance and ask how the blend will be dyed. On a large programme this is worth settling before the yarn is booked.
How PC compares with pure cotton
| Property | PC 65/35 | 100% cotton |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Higher | Lower |
| Wrinkle recovery | Good | Poor |
| Shrinkage | 1 – 3% | 4 – 7% |
| Breathability | Moderate | High |
| Absorbency | Lower | High |
| Pilling | More prone | Less prone |
| Cost per kg | Lower | Higher |
Frequently asked questions
What does PC 65/35 mean?
65 per cent polyester and 35 per cent cotton by weight. Polyester is always stated first in PC blends.
What is the difference between PC and CVC?
Both are polyester-cotton blends. CVC is cotton-rich (cotton is the majority fibre); PC is normally polyester-rich.
Why is PC fabric used for uniforms?
It is strong, resists wrinkles, shrinks very little and costs less than pure cotton — all of which matter for fabric worn and washed daily.
Does PC yarn shrink?
Much less than cotton. Typically 1 to 3 per cent against 4 to 7 per cent for pure cotton, because polyester is dimensionally stable.
Can you supply a custom PC ratio?
Yes. Tell us the ratio, count and quantity. Non-standard ratios usually carry a minimum order quantity.
Related: Blended yarn · Blend ratio calculator · Blend cost calculator · Yarn for shirting · All yarn varieties
Need this quoted? Send your count, blend and quantity and we will come back with firm pricing ex-Delhi and a lead time, within one working day. Get a quote.