Fibre Price per Kilo Translated into Cost per Finished Metre
Translating fibre price per kilo into cost per finished metre requires adjusting raw cost for commercial regain, spinning yields, weaving crimp, finishing shrink, and customs tariffs.
Usable Fabric Width
Effective Cutting Surface
Measurements of the distance between the inner edges of a fabric roll exclude the selvedge and any areas damaged by pins or dyes. The usable fabric width defines the actual area available for laying out garment patterns during the manufacturing process. It is always narrower than the total physical width of the cloth.
This value is recorded in centimetres or inches and is the figure used by cutting room software to calculate material efficiency.
Selvedge Exclusion
Edges of the fabric often have a different thickness or weave density to prevent fraying during production. These areas also contain holes from the stenter pins used to hold the fabric during drying. Because these parts do not match the main body of the cloth, they cannot be included in a finished garment.
The usable fabric width begins where the consistent weave and colour of the main fabric starts. Regular inspections ensure the width remains constant.
Commercial Yield
Garment pricing depends on how many pieces can be cut from a single linear metre of fabric. If the cloth arrives narrower than expected, the factory may need more yardage to complete the order, which increases the cost per unit. Conversely, a wider usable fabric width can lead to significant savings by allowing more efficient pattern nesting.
Buyers often set a strict tolerance for this measurement. If a roll is too narrow, it might be rejected or subject to a price discount to compensate for the lost material. This makes width control a top priority for mills.
Technical Variation
Natural fibres can shrink or expand during finishing, leading to fluctuations in the final dimensions. Mills use heat-setting and tension control to keep the width as stable as possible. Accurate labelling of every roll ensures the cutting room can adjust its markers accordingly.
This precision prevents waste and ensures the garments are cut correctly.