Understanding Fabric Yardage
Fabric is sold in yards (or meters) off a bolt that has a fixed width — typically 44/45 inches for quilting cotton and 58/60 inches for apparel fabric. Your total yardage depends on how many pieces fit across the width and how many rows you need to cut.
Common Fabric Widths & Uses
| Width | Common Fabric Type | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| 44–45" | Quilting cotton, poplin | Quilts, bags, home décor |
| 54" | Canvas, denim | Upholstery, outerwear |
| 58–60" | Apparel fabric, linen | Clothing, drapery |
| 72" | Fleece, felt | Blankets, costumes |
How Much Extra to Buy?
- 10% — most projects with straight cuts and little waste
- 15–20% — pattern matching (stripes, plaids, large prints)
- 25%+ — one-way prints, complex cutting layouts, or first-time sewers
Fabric is typically sold in 1/4 yard increments. Always round up to the nearest quarter yard at the store.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra fabric should I buy?
Add 10–15% for straight-cut projects. Increase to 20–25% if your fabric has a directional print, stripes, or a large repeat that requires pattern matching.
What does "fabric width" mean?
Width is the measurement from selvage to selvage across the bolt. Usable width after removing the selvage is typically 1–2 inches narrower on each side.
How do I convert inches to yards?
Divide total inches by 36. Example: 108 inches ÷ 36 = 3 yards. Always round up to the nearest quarter yard when purchasing.