Purpose - This study evaluates the wrinkle-resistant properties of cotton fabrics treated by 1,2,3,4-butanetetracarboxylic acid (BTCA) and catalyzed by sodium hypophosphite (SHP) in the presence of nano-TiO2 before and after dyeing with direct dye(Direct Blue 2B). Design/methodology/approach - Samples were prepared using pad dry cure method equipped by the above mentioned substances. Dying was performed as a key part of the study for the samples which were already treated by the finishing agents. Afterwards, the wrinkle resistant properties of the specimens were investigated before and after dying process. Wrinkle recovery test (AATCC-128), water drop test, dye fastness determination (ISO 105-C01) were conducted. Finally, samples were characterized using the X-Ray diffractometery method to understand how the crystallinity can be effective structural parameters through the finishing process. It also manifests the relationship between the finishing and wrinkle resistant properties of the cotton textiles. Findings - The results show that the wrinkle resistant of cross-linked fabrics have been improved after direct dyeing. Furthermore, levelness dyeing and good fastness properties of dyes on cross-linked fabrics were observed.Originality/value - There are some studies in which wrinkle properties of cotton fabrics have been investigated. However the whole concept has still broad range to be covered even in terms of the dying process effect on wrinkle properties. To these studies, here it was proposed that dyeing conditions how do influence on the morphology of the cotton woven fabrics while the finishing was performed earlier using above mentioned precursors.