[MR] Fabric wastage

[Charlotte Johnson]

>
> While that one passed by another came ... when fabrics were made for
> clothing were they made into bolts then cut into clothing?Was thinking it
> would of made more sense to weave your fabric into patterns then sew pieces
> together thus wasting less fabric... anyone ever research this?
>
>
Many clothing patterns, especially early 14th century and before, were made
with rectangles and triangles cut out of the full width of fabric, creating
very little waste. The lower classes continued to wear these "fashions"
throughout period.

This website:
http://www.forest.gen.nz/Medieval/articles/Tunics/TUNICS.HTML
give a very basic example with a little bit of historical overview. Even
later, it's possible to cut most garments with little waste, much less waste
than a modern pattern. Using medieval cutting methods instead of modern
patterns is a great way to make economical use of your fabric!

Cheers,
Mathilde