BUYER GUIDE
How to Specify Usable Width for FR Workwear Fabric
Define finished usable width, agree how to measure it, and verify it against your cutting marker before approving bulk FR workwear fabric.
· Brilliant-Tex FRShield
Define what your cutter can use
Overall width is the edge-to-edge measurement. Usable width is the continuous span you and your supplier agree is suitable for cutting, after agreed edge exclusions. A nominal roll width can therefore be wider than the material available to your marker.
State the finish, measurement condition, edge exclusions and minimum acceptable value together. Clarify whether the quoted value applies as delivered or after a specified pre-cut treatment. Keep a post-laundering dimension requirement separate so the mill, laboratory and cutting team use the same reference state.
Choose the method before approving the order
ISO 22198:2006 covers width and length measurements on relaxed textile fabrics without applied tension. Its scope excludes coated fabrics. Ask the laboratory to confirm that the agreed method and edition fit the construction and finish you plan to purchase. Record the method and acceptance criteria together in the purchase specification.
For example, compare CCP3MOOOFO, a 300 gsm cotton plain weave, and CCW8MOOOFO, a 400 gsm cotton 3/1 twill. Both are FR fabric references, and neither public specification lists a confirmed usable width. Request the finished-width specification for the construction, shade and finish under review.
Use this checklist before bulk cutting
- Share the minimum width required by the cutting marker and ask the supplier to confirm it in writing.
- Agree how rolls will be sampled and where readings will be taken. Ask for roll and lot IDs, the measurement state and actual readings.
- Check a representative finished roll against the agreed minimum. If a roll is too narrow, hold it for review and rerun the marker before deciding whether to accept it.
Width is a cutting and purchasing requirement. Verify flame performance separately against the evidence required for your application. See testing and quality or share your marker width and fabric reference with our team.