Fabric Calculator
Calculate the exact amount of fabric needed for your sewing project with minimal waste
Calculate Fabric Requirements
The width of the fabric you're using (usually 45" or 60")
Width of each piece you want to cut
Length of each piece you want to cut
Total number of pieces you need to cut
Fabric Requirements
Layout Details
Calculation Formula
Pieces across: Fabric width ÷ Piece width (rounded down)
Rows down: Number of pieces ÷ Pieces across (rounded up)
Material needed: Piece length × Rows down
Example: Napkin Project
Project Requirements
Project: 120 napkins for a wedding
Fabric width: 60 inches
Napkin size: 18" × 18"
Number needed: 120 napkins
Calculation
Pieces across: 60" ÷ 18" = 3.33 → 3 pieces
Rows down: 120 ÷ 3 = 40 rows
Material needed: 18" × 40 = 720" = 20 yards
Result: 20 yards of fabric needed
Common Fabric Widths
Fabric Buying Tips
Always buy 10-15% extra fabric for mistakes and shrinkage
Check fabric grain direction for consistent appearance
Consider pattern matching when calculating yardage
Account for seam allowances in your piece dimensions
Pre-wash fabric to prevent shrinkage after sewing
How to Use the Fabric Calculator
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Enter the width of your fabric (usually found on the bolt label)
- 2Input the width and length of each piece you need to cut
- 3Specify the total number of pieces required for your project
- 4Review the calculated fabric requirements and layout details
Best Practices
- •Include seam allowances in your piece dimensions
- •Consider fabric direction and pattern matching
- •Account for fabric shrinkage by adding 10-15% extra
When to Use This Calculator
Perfect For:
- • Quilting projects with multiple identical pieces
- • Home decor items like curtains and napkins
- • Tablecloths and placemats
- • Craft projects with geometric shapes
- • Any project requiring multiple identical pieces
Not Ideal For:
- • Complex garment patterns
- • Curved or irregular shaped pieces
- • Projects with many different sized pieces
- • Pattern pieces that require specific layout