Sewing Pattern Layout Optimizer

It’s a smart tool that arranges your pattern pieces on a given fabric area to use as much cloth as possible, minimizing leftover scraps. Ideal for home sewists, designers and small manufacturers who want to save money and reduce textile waste.

We use an improved shelf-packing algorithm. Pieces are sorted by size, placed row by row (shelves), and rotated if it helps and rotation is enabled. The optimizer tries to fit each rectangle into existing rows before starting a new one, which often achieves 80–95% fabric utilization for typical rectangular patterns.

This version works with rectangles only. Most sewing pieces can be approximated by their bounding box (with seam allowance included). For curved or irregular shapes we recommend adding a small safety margin to the width and height.

Rotation often reduces waste significantly. When a piece is tall and narrow, turning it sideways may fit into an existing row instead of creating a new tall one. Disable it only if your fabric has a directional print or nap.

The tool will place as many pieces as possible and display a warning. The placed count shows how many fit. You can then increase the fabric dimensions or rearrange pieces manually. Unplaced pieces are listed in the error message.

Enter the dimensions including seam allowance for each piece. The optimizer treats them as exact rectangles to be cut. If you need extra space between pieces for cutting, simply add a small margin to both width and height of each pattern piece.

Currently this is a client‑side tool – all data stays in your browser. You can bookmark the page, but you’ll need to re‑enter pieces next time. We may add local storage persistence in the future.

You can use any unit (cm, inch, mm) as long as you’re consistent. The labels show “cm” by default, but the math works the same way.