Plan colorfastness evaluation for webbing and trims by matching test conditions to the real product and its care.
Color matching and colorfastness answer different questions
Color matching asks whether the new sample looks close enough to an agreed reference under the selected lighting. Colorfastness asks how a color behaves when exposed to a specified condition. A visually approved sample is not evidence that color will resist rubbing, laundering or light.
Identify relevant contact and care
List the materials the webbing touches, such as a light-colored garment lining, a leather panel or the wearer’s clothing. Record the expected cleaning process, moisture, sweat and sunlight exposure. Specify whether the concern is color change in the webbing, transfer to another material, or both.
Select tests and define acceptance
Discuss suitable methods with a textile laboratory and the customer. The AATCC catalog includes methods for crocking (color transfer by rubbing), light and laundering. Select conditions appropriate to the intended product and record the method, version, specimen preparation, number of samples and acceptance grade or criterion. Do not assume that a result under one method predicts all uses.
Approve and retain reference samples
Keep the approved material and its identification alongside the purchase order and specification revision. Compare production lots under the agreed viewing conditions and link laboratory reports to the material tested. If the yarn, dye, finish or source changes, agree whether a new approval or test is needed.
What should the RFQ include?
- Color reference, viewing light and acceptance tolerance.
- Materials likely to contact the strap and expected cleaning.
- Required test methods, current revisions and acceptance criteria.
- Sample timing, production quantity and documentation required.
Reference: AATCC’s colorfastness overview describes common exposure categories. Consult the current complete method and a qualified laboratory for application details.
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