What is cotton count (yarn count)? How does it affect fabric quality in wholesale?

Yarn count is a number that describes the fineness or coarseness of a yarn — it tells you how many lengths of yarn weigh a set amount. In the English cotton count system (most common in India), a higher number means a finer, thinner yarn.

The English cotton count system:

Count = number of 840-yard lengths per pound of yarn

• 10s–20s: Coarse, heavy yarn — canvas, industrial fabric, rough workwear
• 20s–40s: Medium yarn — standard cotton T-shirts, basic kurtis, casual wear
• 40s–60s: Fine yarn — good quality kurtis, better cotton sarees, dress shirts
• 80s–100s: Very fine yarn — premium cotton voile, fine lawn, luxury cotton
• 100s+: Ultra-fine — luxury shirting, premium handkerchief fabric

Why it matters for wholesale buyers: Two kurtis labelled "100% cotton" can feel completely different if made from 20s vs 60s yarn. Higher count = finer, softer feel = better perceived quality = justified higher retail price.