Free calculator · ruffles & gathers
Enter the finished edge and pick a ratio. Get the strip length, how many strips to cut across your fabric and how many seams to join.
Cut each strip selvage to selvage, then join them end to end.
How it works
Measure the finished edge the ruffle will be sewn to.
1.5× for a soft gather, 2× for a classic ruffle, 2.5–3× for a full, frilly look.
Cut the strips across the fabric, join them end to end and gather to the edge.
Worked example
Worked example
Result
At 1.5× the same edge needs 3 strips; at 3× it needs 5. In metric, a 150.0 cm edge takes 0.4 m (1/2 yd).
The math
Each strip spans the fabric width, minus a seam allowance at each joined end. Divide, round up, and the last strip is shorter.
Strip length: 60" × 2× = 120". That takes 3 strips across 44" fabric, joined with 2 seams; the last one is 34" long. Each strip is cut 5" high.
Tips
Sew two long basting rows inside the seam allowance and pull both bobbin threads together.
Mark quarters on the strip and on the edge, then match them before you pull.
Voile and chiffon look thin at 1.5×. Try 2.5× or 3× for lightweight fabrics.
For a gathered skirt with a waistband or elastic, use the gathered skirt calculator.
1.5× is subtle, 2× is the classic ruffle, 2.5× is full and 3× is very frilly. Heavier fabric needs less.
Cutting across the width is the most efficient way to get long strips. The cross grain also gathers softly.
A loop ruffle goes all the way round, like a hem, so the last strip joins the first. That adds one seam.
Enter the finished height. The calculator adds the seam allowance and the hem to give the cut height.
Yes, one tier at a time. The tiered skirt calculator does all tiers at once.
Free, private and instant. Your numbers never leave this page.
