Measuring formula for pleats

[marko69]

A rectangular piece of 1/2" sewfoam with Vinyl glued on top, making 5 pleats, 2" wide.  Double needle machine.  The piece needs to be 20" long.  How long do I need to cut the vinyl/sewfoam? Is there a general rule of thumb here? Maybe adding 1/4" for each pleat? 

[MinUph]

I cut it oversize and when the piece is all sewn then cut down to finish size.

[mike802]

When using 1/2" pleating foam I add 1/8" for each seam to come up with the basic amount needed and then do like Paul suggest.

[sofadoc]

That's my formula, too. Make it too big, and cut off whatcha don't need. ;D

[bobbin]

Better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it!

When I first read this thread I was thinking in terms of knife and box pleats (as on a slipcover skirt or drapery panels).  And I couldn't, for the life of me, figure out what the heck you were going to use the sew foam for.  (what a knucklehead!).  I think I'm "with the program now.  lol

[marko69]

Just cutting the piece after sewing it?  That didn't even cross my mind, I guess it was too simple....lol.  I was thinking in terms of making a permanent pattern but I could just cut the pattern the same amount.  Thanks ya'll

[Mike]

Are you makeing like a tuck and roll pleat for the loss Per seam i figure yes over just stiching a pleat sith the thread showing.  But why the double needle ? I just fold and sew each roll and dont cur it. I figure sbiut a 2/4" per pleat with a tight 1/8" seam allowance   Like the rest make it. Bigger then. CUt to what i need