Short definition
Running length or yardage indicates the total length of sewing or embroidery thread wound onto a package such as a cone, spool or cop. It is an important factor for production planning, machine efficiency and thread consumption calculations.
Understanding Running Length and Its Relation to Thread Count
The running length is often mentioned in connection with sewing and embroidery thread strength. Officially, the running length is not considered a linear density indicator such as Tex or Nm; however, in practice it is frequently used as one.
The running length indicates how many metres of thread weigh 1 kg. Expressed as m/kg, it is closely related to the fixed-length system Nm (m/g). For this reason, the running length is mainly used in Europe, where linear density is expressed in Nm.
As with all fixed-length systems, the following also applies to running length: the higher the ticket number or effective count of a thread, the finer the thread and the greater the running length per unit of weight.
In order to calculate the approximate running length of a thread, the ticket number is divided by 3 and the result is multiplied by 1,000.
Example:
Saba 120 has an approximate running length of 40,000 m/kg.
(Calculation: 120 ÷ 3 = 40; 40 × 1,000 = 40,000).
The effective count should be used to calculate the exact running length of an article. The following formula applies: effective count divided by the number of plies, multiplied by 1,000.
Example:
Saba 120 has an effective count of 72/2 Nm, which corresponds to a running length of 36,000 m/kg
(Calculation: 72 ÷ 2 = 36, 36 × 1,000 = 36,000)
Quick facts
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Category | Package specification |
| Purpose | Indicate thread length |
| Typical units | m, yd |
| Related topics | Thread consumption, package types |
Also known as
Technical terms
- Yardage
- Thread length
- Running length
- Package length
Common descriptions
- What is running length?
- How is thread running length calculated?
- What does m/kg mean for sewing thread?
- How does thread count affect running length?
FAQ
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Running length describes how many meters of thread are contained per kilogram. It is expressed as m/kg.
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No, it is not an official numbering system. However, it is often used in practice.
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Finer threads have a higher running length. Coarser threads have a lower running length.
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It can be estimated using the ticket number or exact count. Formulas are based on length-based systems.
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It helps estimate material consumption. This is important for cost calculations.
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It is mainly used in regions where Nm is common. It is especially relevant in Europe.
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No, it should be used as a complementary value. Official specifications remain Tex or Nm.
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It allows better estimation of thread usage and logistics. This improves efficiency.