Calculating Fabric Yardage for Sewing Projects

One of the most vital steps in planning a sewing project is determining how much fabric you’ll need. There’s nothing more frustrating than being mid-project and realizing you don’t have enough material. While yardage requirements vary widely depending on the project, some general guidelines can help you estimate.

For Garment Sewing

The Pattern is Your Guide First and foremost, consult the fabric yardage requirements on your commercial pattern envelope or indie PDF pattern. Pattern companies have done the math for you based on the garment design and range of sizes. This info is tailored to that specific style.

Add Extra Yardage Since mistakes happen, add 15-20% more yardage than the pattern states as a buffer. You may need to recut pieces or accommodate alterations. Extra fabric prevents having to run to the store again.

Consider Your Size The yardage on a pattern envelope is typically based on smaller sizes. Larger sizes require more fabric, so adjust yardage up accordingly.

Hint: Use our clothing fabric calculator!

For Quilts

Do the Math For quilts, precise calculations determine yardage. Start with the finished dimensions of your quilt top then add extra for:

• Borders
• Binding
• Backing
• Batting Measure quilt block sizes and multiply by number of blocks. Factor in 1/4 inch seam allowances.

Hint: Use our quilt fabric calculator!

Buy More than Estimated Since quilting projects use more fabric, buy 10-15% extra for safety even after estimating. Nothing stretches fabric farther than quilting math errors!

Other Sewing Projects

Measure First For home decor like curtains or cushion covers, measure the finished dimensions of the project first. Then add yardage for hems, casings, seam allowances, and overlap.

Hint: Use our curtains calculator!

Follow Patterns or Tutorials Many projects like tote bags come with specific yardage requirements on patterns or in tutorials. Follow their guidance, then grab extra to be safe.

Considerations for All Projects

Fabric Width Note whether your fabric is standard 44/45″ wide or wider 54″-60″ fabric. Wider fabric requires less yardage.

Nap and Directional Prints
Extra yardage ensures you can match patterns and keep nap running the same direction.

Preshrinking Wash and dry fabric before cutting to allow for shrinkage.

By measuring carefully, estimating generously, and adding extra yardage, you can sew confidently knowing you have enough fabric to complete your project vision!