Fabric Width Guide
| Width | Common Fabric Type |
|---|---|
| 36" | Calico, novelty prints |
| 45" | Quilting cotton, most apparel |
| 54" | Home decor, upholstery |
| 60" | Knits, fleece, broadcloth |
Fabric Calculator
Calculate how much fabric you need for sewing projects based on pattern pieces, dimensions, and fabric width.
π How We Calculate — Learn about our calculation methodology, data sources, and quality standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much extra fabric should I buy?
Add 10-15% for cutting waste and pattern matching. For directional prints or plaids, add 20-25%.
How do I convert between yards and meters?
1 yard = 0.9144 meters. Most US patterns use yards; European patterns use meters.
How to Use This Fabric Calculator
Enter the project dimensions, fabric width, and pattern repeat. The calculator estimates fabric yardage needed with waste allowance for seams and matching.
Formula & How It Works
Yardage = (Project Width / Fabric Width) Γ Project Length / 36 Γ Waste Factor. For pattern repeats: add one repeat per seam for matching.
Calculation Example
Curtains: 80" wide Γ 84" long, 54" fabric, 12" repeat: Need (80/54 = 2 widths) Γ (84+12 seam allowance) / 36 = 5.33 β 5.5 yards.
Expert Tips
Always buy 10-15% extra fabric for mistakes and future repairs. Check the bolt for defects before cutting. Pre-wash cotton and linen to prevent shrinkage. Pattern repeats significantly increase the yardage needed.