THREAD COUNT ASTM DEFINITIONS
Hyatt Regency – Dallas, TX October 2005 NEW ASTM DEFINITIONS

Thread Count, n - in woven textiles as used in sheets and bedding, the sum of the number of warp yarns (ends) and filling yarns (picks) per unit distance as counted while the fabric is held under zero tension and is free of folds and wrinkles; individual warp and filling yarns are counted as single units regardless of whether they are comprised of single or plied components.

Thread Count: Proposed Discussion- The thread count of sheets and bedding articles is frequently displayed on the outside packaging of such items, or utilized in advertising literature. The specific construction of the warp and filling yarns used to construct the fabric in such items may also be displayed.

A possible non-deceptive way to disclose both the thread count and the yarn ply would be to state, for example, “300 thread count, 2 ply yarn.” A representation of “600 thread count” for this same product would likely mislead consumers about the quality of the product being purchased. Another example of a non-deceptive disclosure would be “finely woven 380 thread count, 2-ply fabric,” as opposed to “finely woven 760 threads per square inch.”

Count, n - in woven textiles, the number of warp yarns (ends) and filling yarns (picks) per unit distance as counted while the fabric is held under zero tension, and is free of folds and wrinkles. Multiple ply yarns are counted as a single unit. (Commonly called fabric count).

Count, n - in knitted textiles, the number (counted units) of wale loops and course loops per 25mm (1 inch). Multiple ply yarns are counted as a single unit. (Commonly called fabric count).

Average Yarn Number - a new definition, drafted by US Customs, will define average yarn number for bolts of fabric in compliance with the Harmonized Tariff Schedule. (D-1059, ASTM 2005)