What it actually costs to make.
WHAT TO INCLUDE
Fabric, at the quantity actually used including waste Lining and interfacing
Trims: buttons, zips, thread, elastic
Labour, by operation Overheads apportioned Finishing and packaging
WHAT PEOPLE OMIT
Fabric waste Their own time Rework and alterations Thread and small trims
WHY FABRIC WASTE MATTERS
Cutting produces waste, and it is a real cost.
HOW MUCH
It depends on the pattern and the fabric width, and it is measurable.
WHAT TO MEASURE
Actual fabric consumed per garment, not the pattern requirement.
HOW TO COST LABOUR
Time each operation, and apply an hourly rate.
WHY TIME IT
Estimates of sewing time are consistently wrong.
WHAT OPERATIONS TO TIME
Cutting Assembly, by stage Finishing Pressing Quality check
WHAT THAT PRODUCES
A standard time per garment style.
WHAT THAT ENABLES
Accurate pricing and realistic scheduling.
WHAT TO ADD
An allowance for rework.
WHY
Some garments require correction, and it must be priced in.
WHAT TO CALCULATE
Cost per garment, then the price required for your margin.
WHAT TO DO IF THE PRICE EXCEEDS WHAT CUSTOMERS PAY
Simplify the design, source differently, or improve the method.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Absorb it by underpaying yourself.
WHY
It hides an unviable product.
