01 / METHOD
How to use this calculator
- Measure the actual cut piece and usable width after excluding selvages.
- Enter tested directional shrinkage only if it is not already included in the piece dimensions.
- Use the vertical repeat when each row must align; disable rotation for nap, grain, or motif constraints.
- Keep cutting allowance separate from shrinkage and repeat loss.
- Calculate, then round the purchase quantity up to the seller’s increment.
02 / APPLICATION
Useful for
- Napkins, panels, banners, and other rectangular pieces
- Early material costing before marker development
- Comparing requirements across available roll widths
03 / BOUNDARIES
Assumptions and limitations
What the estimate assumes
- Pieces are rectangular and packed in straight rows.
- Every row uses the selected orientation and begins on the same vertical repeat grid.
- The allowance is applied after shrinkage and repeat alignment.
What it does not model
- Not a substitute for a production marker for shaped or mixed pieces.
- Does not model horizontal motif matching, half-drop repeats, splices, roll ends, shade lots, or defect maps.
- Rotation must be disabled when grain, nap, print direction, pairing, or construction forbids it.
- Actual purchase quantity may need supplier-increment and lot rounding.
04 / NOTES
Frequently asked questions
Does fabric width include the selvage?
Use only the width that can actually be cut. Subtract selvages and any damaged edge.
Why can a small width change affect yardage sharply?
If one fewer piece fits across, another full row is required. That step change is normal.
Should I include shrinkage here?
Use the directional shrinkage fields only when the entered cut piece is a post-shrink target. Leave them at zero when the pattern or dimensions are already compensated.