Shrinking clothing is something people generally try to avoid. For those who mistakenly purchase oversized clothing, lose weight or receive gifts and donations, shrinking the garment can be a favorable option. At times, tight and form-fitting looks are best achieved by using existing clothing rather than buying new garments. Shrinking clothing, such as cotton sweaters, can be achieved in a few, simple steps.

Fill a tub or sink with very hot water. Add soap if you would like, although it is optional.

Place the sweater into the sink and agitate it. Manipulate the sweater with gloved hands, a utensil or rolling pin. The combination of heat, water and movement causes the cotton material to shrink.

Remove the cotton sweater from the tub every so often to observe the shrinking. Use a ruler to measure the width and length of the sweater precisely. Record the observations with a pencil and paper.

Wash the sweater in a washing machine on the hot-water setting if you are not pleased with the above results. Note that the cycle does not require detergent. Squeeze the sweater carefully and avoid wringing the fabric, since the shape of a heated garment is highly malleable.

Place the sweater in the dryer on the highest heat setting. Allow the sweater to dry for approximately 45 minutes. Observe the change in size once the sweater is removed from the dryer.