How Much Fabric Do You Need?
Calculate fabric yardage for curtains, upholstery, clothing, and quilts. Account for pattern repeats and seam allowances.
Calculating Fabric Yardage
The basic formula: (Cut Length × Number of Cuts) ÷ 36 = Yards. Cut length = finished length + hems + seam allowances. For patterned fabric, round up each cut to the next pattern repeat. Always add 10% for waste, mistakes, and matching. A pair of 84" curtains on a 54" bolt: each panel needs ~88" (with hems), 2 panels = 176" ÷ 36 = 4.9 yards → buy 5.5 yards.
Pattern Repeats
Patterned fabric must be aligned across panels — each cut must start at the same point in the pattern. A 12" vertical repeat on an 88" cut means each panel needs 96" (88 rounded up to the next multiple of 12). Pattern repeats can increase fabric needs by 15-30%. Always bring your measurements to the fabric store and calculate there — cutting short is a costly mistake, especially with discontinued fabrics.
The most expensive sewing mistake: buying one yard too little of a fabric that gets discontinued. Fabric stores cannot reorder from the same dye lot, and colors vary between batches. Always buy 10-15% more than calculated. Leftover fabric makes great throw pillows, tote bags, or test pieces for technique practice.
