Pricing and Fabric useage

[Former_Member]

I've been reading up on pricing and my head is going to explode.
Anyway I have a question that is specific to sewing...

When you calculate the cost of materials, how do YOU do it? Lets say I am making a dress that requires 2 yards of fabric, but there area lot of scraps. I can make baby shirts and/or some baby wipes from the scraps, but I'm probably not going to do that for awhile. Into the scrap bin they go. I want to make sure I get a fair price for the dress, so do I just calculate the cost of 2 yards of fabric and then when I use the scraps later that is a minimal $ amt? Do you get what I'm saying?

[TheCottonPost]

If you have to purchase 2 yards of fabric to make the dress, use that entire amount to calculate the price. The scraps are just that and can be used later for bonus items. Don't forget to add the cost of other items, such as zippers, buttons, etc. But most importantly, charge enough to cover your time. Don't over or under charge. Hope this helps.

[HandmadeByEvaRose]

I calculate the fabric so:

I meter of fabric, is 1.00 meter long by 0.90 meter wide=0.90 m squared and costs lets say £10.00.

If I use a square 30 cm by 40cm to make a pouch, I used 0.12 meter squared.

This will cost me 10*0.12/0.90= £1.33.

I know my left over fabric is worth now £10-£1.33= £8.67

This way you will know what you have in stock in scraps and can work out how to price the things you make out them later.

If you have many fabrics, pin a label with the price on it.

As different fabrics come in different widths, it helps you know exactly how much you use and how much it costs you every time. a pain to do, but I like knowing my finances inside out.

[EquineWears]

i agree with Angie. When i am making curtain, shower curtains, or pillow covers, I also charge for how much i need to make the product. Scraps are leftovers, and you can never guarantee what kind of income can be made from them.

Definetly remember not to under charge. Your time and skills are very valuable! your customers will apperciate the value and hardwork in their items.