🧵 Fabric Yardage Calculator

Calculate exactly how much fabric you need for your sewing project

You need approximately
0
yards of fabric

How to Use This Fabric Calculator

Our fabric yardage calculator makes it easy to figure out exactly how much fabric to buy for your sewing, quilting, or craft project. Follow these simple steps:

1. Choose Your Project Type

Select what you're making from the buttons at the top, or use "Custom Project" for anything else.

2. Enter Fabric Width

Standard fabric widths are 44-45" (quilting cotton) or 54-60" (home decor fabric).

3. Enter Piece Dimensions

Input the width and length of each piece you need to cut from the fabric.

4. Add Number of Pieces

Tell us how many pieces you need and we'll calculate the total yardage.

💡 Pro Tip: Always add 10-15% extra fabric for mistakes, pattern matching, and shrinkage!

Standard Fabric Widths

Different types of fabric come in standard widths. Here's what you need to know:

Quilting Cotton

44-45 inches wide - This is the most common width for quilting and apparel fabrics. When stores say "width of fabric" or "WOF," they typically mean 44 inches.

Home Decor Fabric

54-60 inches wide - Upholstery, curtain, and other home decor fabrics are usually wider to reduce seams in larger projects.

Specialty Fabrics

Varies - Knits, fleece, and specialty fabrics can range from 58-72 inches wide. Always check the fabric bolt for exact measurements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I calculate fabric yardage for multiple pieces?
The calculator divides the fabric width by your piece width to see how many pieces fit across. Then it divides the total pieces needed by pieces across to get the number of rows. Finally, it multiplies rows by piece length and converts to yards.
Should I buy extra fabric beyond the calculated amount?
Yes! Always add 10-15% extra for mistakes, shrinkage, and pattern matching. If you're a beginner or working with expensive fabric, consider adding even more cushion.
What if my pieces are different sizes?
For projects with multiple different-sized pieces, calculate each size separately and add the totals together. Or use the largest piece dimensions and multiply by total pieces as a rough estimate.
How much is a yard of fabric?
One yard of fabric is 36 inches (3 feet) long. The width varies by fabric type, but is typically 44-45 inches for quilting cotton or 54-60 inches for home decor fabric.
Do I need to account for pattern repeats?
Yes, if your fabric has a directional pattern or large print that needs to be matched. Enter the pattern repeat length (usually listed on the fabric bolt) to ensure you buy enough for proper pattern alignment.
Can I use this calculator for quilting projects?
Absolutely! This calculator is perfect for calculating yardage for quilt squares, backing fabric, and binding. Just enter your square size and how many you need.

Common Fabric Projects & Yardage Estimates

Quilts

Baby Quilt (36" x 52"): 2-3 yards total (multiple fabrics)
Throw Quilt (50" x 65"): 3-4 yards total
Queen Quilt (90" x 95"): 7-9 yards total

Clothing

Simple Dress: 2-3 yards
Button-up Shirt: 2-2.5 yards
Pants: 2-3 yards

Home Decor

Throw Pillow Covers (18"): 0.5-1 yard each
Curtain Panels (standard window): 3-5 yards per panel
Tablecloth (60" round): 2 yards

Fabric Buying Tips

Pre-wash Your Fabric

Always pre-wash fabric before cutting, especially cotton, to account for shrinkage. Most cotton fabrics shrink 2-5% when washed.

Consider Fabric Direction

Some fabrics have a nap or directional pattern. Make sure all pieces are cut in the same direction, which may require additional yardage.

Buy From the Same Bolt

Dye lots can vary even within the same fabric. If possible, buy all your fabric from the same bolt to ensure perfect color matching.

Round Up

Fabric is typically sold in increments (1/4 yard, 1/2 yard, full yards). Always round up to the next increment when purchasing.