Abstract: Shape-memory polymer is a new kind of material utilizing shape memorizing mechanism of elastomer of polyurethane family. These materials exhibit novel properties such as sensing (thermal), actuaton, high damping, adaptive responses, super-elasticity capability and air permeability. Recently, they are used and applied to finish textiles and garments. Although there are some characterization methods for shape memory polymers, there is currently no characterization method to evaluate the effects of shape memory fabrics. This invention provides a method to determine the shape memory coefficient of fabrics. The fabric is first deformed from the original state to a deformed state and then subjected to a switch temperature. Different parameters are measured at the original state before and after the fabric is subjected to the switch temperature to determine the shape memory coefficient.