Which commonly used ethnic wear fabrics shrink after washing? Natural and semi-natural fabrics used in suits and sarees can shrink, mainly in the first wash. These include: Cotton & cotton blends Khadi Linen Viscose / Rayon Modal  (slight shrinkage) Wool blends  (in winter wear) Shrinkage is more noticeable if hot water, machine drying, or rough handling is used. Which ethnic wear fabrics usually do NOT shrink? Fabrics that are synthetic or heavily finished are generally size