Frequently Asked Questions

Fabric Information

1. Will the fabrics shrink?

   All our fabrics are “finished” which is a sequence of procedures that transform the loomstate fabric into the finished fabric. One such procedure is sanforisation. During this process, the fabrics are pre-shrunk through a series of rollers and heat set.

   Although this process does reduce the risk of shrinkage there might still be 1% – 3% shrinkage, which is the accepted norm in the industry. But if you want remove the chance of any shrinkage you can wash the fabric first. Also some fabrics have a higher tendency to shrink than others. As a rule, the tighter woven fabrics shrink less than the more open, looser woven ones.

2. Fabric terminology?

   See ‘Glossary’ page which can be accessed at the bottom of this site.

3. How much fabric do I need for a shirt?

   Depending on the width of the fabric, we usually recommend 3.00metres of our 90cms (36”) width shirtings or 2.00metres of our 150cms (60”) width fabrics. Of course this is for an average build, taller customers or customers with a large chest, stomach, shoulders etc will need more fabric. If you are unsure about this, either contact us for further details or consult your shirtmaker. When placing your order simply type the amount you need in the ‘required length’ field e.g. 2.5 for 2.5mts.

4. What is Sea Island Cotton?

   This refers to the origin of the cotton. Most of the world’s shirtings, including ours, use Egyptian cotton or American grown Pima cotton. Sea Island cotton is grown in the West Indies and although this cotton is considered the best in the world, supply is limited.

   Origin does not necessarily result in fine shirtings. A combination of fine grade cotton, finely spun yarns, high quality weaving and good finishing all contribute to the calibre of the end product. If you enjoy the finer things why not try our Superfine poplins.

5. Sustainability and Origin

   Please see our dedicated ‘Sustainability’ page.

6. Washing instructions

   These washing instructions apply to the majority of the collection:

   

   Denim 300 indigo can be laundered using the above instructions however be aware that this fabric uses real indigo dye so there might be some initial colour lift.

    

   Our Spun silk Ivory fabric is dry clean only.

7. Where can I go to have my shirt made up?

   We work with most of the country’s shirtmakers and can recommend several to try out – details available on request.

General Information

1. Can I get samples and how many can I request?

   On every product page there is a button to ‘Request a fabric sample’, once you click this button a swatch of this fabric will be added to your basket. There is no charge for the sample, just a charge for the postage. We ask that you don’t order more than 20 samples at a time. If you need more than this you can either place a second sample request or purchase a range card. If you are a Business you can also contact our sales team to discuss other options.

2. Can I receive a price list?

   Although the prices are listed on the product information page, you can email us with a request for a full price list.

3. Can I visit Acorn Fabrics?

   Visitors are always welcome, by appointment, to come and see our premises and meet the team, however we do not have a shop to retail our fabrics on site. We endeavour to facilitate fabric browse, selection and purchase via other means eliminating the need for a physical visit.

Ordering And Delivery Information

1. Are the fabrics always sent in one continuous length?

   Our intention is always to prepare your order using fabric in one continuous length without a join or seam. Occasionally, particularly if stock is low, we will have to join two pieces together to fill the order.

   When this occurs, we pay particular attention to match the colours of the two pieces. If, due to the above, you are unhappy with your purchase when it arrives, please return the fabric to us and we will issue a credit note.

2. How can I check the status of my order?

   When ordering, you will receive a confirmation email and your goods will be dispatched without delay. If there is a reason why this is not the case, you will be informed.

   Should you wish to track the process of your order, you can visit our website and go to “your account”. Alternatively, you can contact a member of our sales team.

3. How long does it take from order to delivery?

   As soon as your order is confirmed and we’ve received your payment your order will be processed immediately and shipped. if you are unlikely to be in you can put down a secure location for us to leave the parcel in the comments stage in the check out process. UK shipments normally take 2-4 days to arrive. International shipments are normally sent by courier however in some regions we offer a International recorded mail option for smaller orders. International shipments by courier will take 3-4 days while shipments sent by International recorded mail will take 10-15 days. If you have a specific delivery requirement please place your order by e-mail or phone e.g. arrange your own shipping.

4. How much will shipping cost?

   Shipping costs depend on weight so you can get an accurate shipping quote from the basket page.

5. Is there a guaranteed delivery of all ordered items?

   We do our best to ensure you receive all the items you’ve ordered. Occasionally it can happen that certain fabrics are sold out due to their high demand. Please understand that we can not guarantee that all and every fabric is 100% available.

   Based on our business structure and due to unfortunate circumstances it can be that we can not deliver an item. In this case we will contact you immediately and of course refund the value of the missing item.

6. What can I do if I would like to change my order?

   If you contact us immediately we can alter any details on your order and if needed we can refund the payment and re-process a new order.

7. What happens if only a partial delivery is possible?

   If we can only ship a partial order, we will send the deliverable items to you immediately.

   The remaining items will be sent to you as soon as they are available again. Of course our customer service will contact you immediately in such a case. If a late delivery is not acceptable to you, we can refund the value of the missing item or you could choose a substitute.

8. What should I do if there is a problem with my order?

   Should there be a problem with any part of your order, please don’t hesitate to contact us by e-mail: sales@acornfabrics.co.uk or by phone: +44 (0)1282 698662

9. Which payment methods are available?

   Payment for Internet orders can be made by credit/debit card, PayPal, Apple pay or Google pay (all major credit & debit cards accepted including Amex). Orders placed by phone or e-mail can be paid for by bank transfer, card or PayPal.