I made a tank out of sugar n cream cotton and it shrank a few inches when I washed it. I ended up knitting down about 3 inches extra from the bottom edge.
Now I’m finishing up a shell using patons grace. It’s the sideways knit one from Vogue - the paper chase section. Right now the fit is perfect, but I’m worried that it’s going to shrink like sugar n cream did after it’s washed.
Does mercerized cotton shrink less than “normal” cotton?
Did you knit a swatch? IF you did, when you washed it, did it shrink? IF it didn’t, than you should be fine. But, if you didn’t and you have leftover yarn, knit a small swatch and wash it like you would the sweater and see if it shrinks. If it does, than you should handwash the sweater. Does that help?
Well, I made a swatch but I didn’t wash it. Bad me I know. Your idea for knitting and washing my swatch is a good one. I do have extra yarn. 
Has anyone had personal experience with Patons Grace?
That’s interesting, I used sugar and cream for a top and it doesn’t shrink. That is, it stretches out when I wear it, but goes back after I wash and dry it.
sue
don’t forget- cold water wash!! and lay flat to dry… or if you must, Air dry (no heat) in the dryer.
I agree with testing the swatch before you wash the whole sweater…
I have not had the cotton “shrink” smaller than when I started- but when I wear my favorite cotton sweater, it stretches larger. then when I wash it, the sweater tightens back up to regular size.
good luck!
That’s been my experience too, only I use warm water and put mine in the dryer. Don’t have a problem.
sue
Paton’s Grace says handwash only on the label so you may not want to wash it. I just finished a blanket using it and plan on handwashing it because I don’t want to chance it shrinking at all.
I washed the shirt today on delicate cycle and dried it on low. It didn’t dry completely so I laid it flat to finish drying. Final result - no shrinking!! YAY! 
Thanks to all who offered help.
Great!!! I’m so glad it worked out. :cheering:
I’m glad it worked! I took the plunge and washed the blanket I made on the delicate cycle and laid it flat to dry - I’m glad I did because the stitches came out so nicely! Remember to post a picture if you have a chance! :cheering: