Free buyer tool
Yarn count converter
Instantly convert a yarn count between Ne (English cotton count), Nm (metric count), Tex and Denier. Enter a value, pick the system, and see the equivalents.
Common cotton count reference
| Ne | Tex | Nm | Denier |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10s | 59.1 | 16.9 | 531 |
| 20s | 29.5 | 33.9 | 266 |
| 30s | 19.7 | 50.8 | 177 |
| 40s | 14.8 | 67.7 | 133 |
| 60s | 9.8 | 101.6 | 89 |
Ne and Nm are indirect systems (a higher number means a finer yarn). Tex and Denier are direct systems (a higher number means a coarser, heavier yarn).
Learn more: Yarn count conversion guide · Cotton yarn · All yarn varieties · Request a quote
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Yarn count systems split into two families, and mixing them up is the single most common sourcing error. In indirect systems (Ne, Nm, worsted, linen) a higher number means a finer yarn. In direct systems (tex, dtex, denier) a higher number means a coarser yarn.
Cotton is quoted in Ne almost everywhere in India. Polyester and filament yarn is quoted in denier or dtex. Woollen and worsted trade in Nm. If a supplier quotes you 150 and does not say the system, you cannot know whether it is fine or coarse.
Conversion factors worth memorising
| From | To | Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Ne | Tex | Tex = 590.5 ÷ Ne |
| Tex | Ne | Ne = 590.5 ÷ Tex |
| Nm | Tex | Tex = 1000 ÷ Nm |
| Ne | Nm | Nm = Ne × 1.693 |
| Denier | Tex | Tex = Denier ÷ 9 |
| Dtex | Tex | Tex = Dtex ÷ 10 |
Common counts in context
| Count (Ne) | Tex | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 6s – 10s | 98 – 59 | Denim weft, canvas, coarse weaving |
| 16s – 20s | 37 – 30 | Denim warp, heavy jersey, towels |
| 24s – 30s | 25 – 20 | T-shirt jersey, standard shirting |
| 34s – 40s | 17 – 15 | Fine shirting, premium tees |
| 60s – 80s | 10 – 7 | Voile, lawn, fine poplin |
| 100s+ | under 6 | Superfine shirting, specialty |
Worked example
A buyer asks for 30s Ne equivalent in tex. 590.5 ÷ 30 = 19.7 tex. In metric count that is 30 × 1.693 = 50.8 Nm.
Going the other way, a 167 dtex polyester filament is 16.7 tex, which is roughly equivalent to a 35s Ne cotton in thickness — useful when matching a blend partner.
Frequently asked questions
How do I convert Ne to tex?
Divide 590.5 by the Ne count. A 30s Ne yarn is 590.5 divided by 30, or 19.7 tex.
Is a higher yarn count finer or coarser?
It depends on the system. In Ne, Nm and worsted, higher means finer. In tex, dtex and denier, higher means coarser.
What is the difference between denier and dtex?
Both are direct systems based on weight per fixed length. Denier is grams per 9,000 metres; dtex is grams per 10,000 metres. Dtex equals denier multiplied by 1.111.
Which count system is used for cotton in India?
Ne, the English cotton count, is standard. Polyester filament is quoted in denier or dtex, and woollen or worsted yarn in Nm.
Can you quote yarn in any count system?
Yes. Send your spec in whichever system you work in and we will convert it and quote the nearest standard count we can supply.