Guides / 06—08
Plan repeat patterns and print direction
Printed fabric can require more length than a plain-fabric layout suggests.
Measure a repeat
Measure from one motif point to its identical next point along the fabric length. Record motif placement against each panel's cut edge. If the print has an up and down, align all panels one way even when alternating direction would use less fabric.
Test with a scaled sketch
Draw usable fabric width and rectangles at cut size. Mark each row's motif start. Move rows when prints must match at a seam, then measure the extra length. The panel calculator provides simple repeat-rectangle arithmetic, not print-matching simulation.
Keep the print measurement
At purchase, record the measured repeat, direction and extra length you actually decided on. When repeat information is unavailable, avoid an invented universal margin. Ask for a sample or measure the bolt and redo the plan before a large purchase.