Raw vs Washed Denim
Whether the fabric arrives finished or you finish it yourself changes costing, shrinkage and lead time.
Short answer
Raw denim is unwashed and unshrunk: you control the finish, and you carry the shrinkage risk. Washed or finished goods arrive stable and ready to cut, at a higher price per yard.
Side by side
| Raw | Washed / finished | |
|---|---|---|
| Shrinkage | Significant unless sanforized | Already stabilised |
| Finish control | Entirely yours | Set by the mill |
| Cost per yard | Lower | Higher |
| Extra process | You wash after make | None |
| Fade potential | High — the point of it | Already partly spent |
| Risk | Sizing after wash | Fewer surprises |
Choose Raw when…
Raw and heritage programmes, or any product where you are doing your own wash and want to own the look.
Choose Washed / finished when…
Where you need to cut and sew without adding a wash step, and want the yardage to behave predictably.
See Both in Stock
Each of these reads live from our warehouse sheets.
Still Deciding?
Tell us what you are making and we will tell you which of the two suits it, and what we have in both.