This test method is intended for evaluating the resistance of colored fabrics to changes in shade caused by flat abrasion. It can be used for all colored fabrics, but is especially sensitive to poor dye penetration in all-cotton fabrics and to abrasion-caused changes in color of union-dyed blends.

The test method produces, in an accelerated manner, a localized color change similar to that produced on some garments over relatively long periods of actual wear in which the garment is exposed to relatively severe abrasion action.

The fabric specimen is mounted over a diaphragm inflated under controlled air pressure and rubbed multidirectionally against an emery abradant surface mounted on a weighted head. Any change in color of specimen is evaluated by comparison with the Gray Scale for Color Change.