How the yardage is calculated
Quilters cut pieces from strips that run across the width of the fabric (WOF):
- Cut strips as tall as one side of the piece.
- Sub-cut each strip into pieces:
pieces per strip = usable width ÷ other side, rounded down. strips = pieces needed ÷ pieces per strip, rounded up.yardage = strips × strip height ÷ 36, plus your safety margin, rounded up to ⅛ yard.
For rectangles the calculator tries both orientations and uses whichever needs less fabric.
Example
Forty 5" squares from 40" usable fabric: 8 squares per strip, so 5 strips of 5" = 25". With a 10% margin that's 27½", which rounds up to ⅞ yard.
Tips
- Measure your actual usable width after trimming selvages. Some fabrics are only 40" while others give 43".
- Prewashing can shrink cotton by a few percent; keep a margin if you prewash.
- Directional prints may force one orientation even if the other uses less fabric.
Frequently asked questions
How many 5-inch squares can I get from a yard of fabric?
A yard (36") gives seven 5" strips. With 40" usable width each strip yields 8 squares, so 56 squares per yard.
How many 2½-inch strips are in a yard?
Fourteen full 2½" strips (35") fit in 36", leaving 1" for straightening the edge.
Do I need to add extra fabric?
A 5–10% margin is a good habit, especially if you prewash, need to straighten the fabric, or are cutting many small pieces.