Work out fabric width utilisation instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Width utilisation is marker width as a percentage of purchased fabric width. Selvedge and edge damage are unavoidable losses, but any width left unused between the marker edge and the usable edge is pure waste paid for on every metre — often a larger loss than the marker inefficiency itself.
Width utilisation
Utilisation % = marker width x 100 / fabric width
Cost of unused width
Cost lost per metre = unused width x cost per metre / fabric width
Yes wherever the mill allows. Specifying a width that matches the marker within a centimetre or two eliminates the residual strip and typically saves 1-3% of fabric cost.
Sometimes for small components, pocketing or trims, but handling and cutting a narrow strip separately often costs more than the fabric saved. Prevention beats recovery.