Work out cutting marker efficiency instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Marker efficiency is the summed area of all pattern pieces divided by the marker rectangle. Above 90% is excellent, 85-90% good, and below 80% signals a marker worth reworking. Because fabric is the largest cost element in most garments, a single efficiency point is often worth more than any labour saving.
Marker efficiency
Efficiency % = total pattern area x 100 / (marker length x usable width)
Strongly. A width that suits the pattern set can add several efficiency points. Ordering fabric in a width matched to the marker is often cheaper than optimising the marker in a fixed width.
Selvedge is unusable and needs trimming, and the marker must keep clear of edge defects and listing. Typically 2-4 cm is lost in total.