Understanding Fabric Yardage
Accurate fabric calculation prevents costly mistakes. Always buy a little extra for matching patterns, potential errors, and shrinkage. Pre-wash fabric before cutting to account for shrinkage.
Common Fabric Widths
| Width | Common Uses |
|---|---|
| 36" | Quilting cotton, craft fabric |
| 44-45" | Standard apparel, cotton prints |
| 54-60" | Home decor, upholstery, knits |
| 108-120" | Quilt backing, sheeting |
Pattern Matching Guide
| Pattern Type | Extra Fabric |
|---|---|
| Solid/No Match | No extra needed |
| Small Print | No extra needed |
| Directional | +10-15% |
| Large Print | +15-25% |
| Plaid/Stripe | +20-30% |
Typical Yardage by Project
| Project | 45" Fabric |
|---|---|
| Blouse/Top | 2-2.5 yards |
| Simple Dress | 3-4 yards |
| Full Skirt | 2.5-3.5 yards |
| Pants | 2-3 yards |
| Throw Pillow | 0.5-1 yard |
Fabric Buying Tips
- Pre-wash: Most fabrics shrink 3-5% - pre-wash before cutting
- Buy extra: Add 10-15% for errors and future repairs
- Same bolt: Buy all fabric from the same bolt for color consistency
- Check grain: Ensure fabric is on-grain before cutting
- Nap fabrics: Velvet, corduroy need all pieces cut same direction
- Save scraps: Keep leftover fabric for matching buttons, repairs
Shrinkage Allowance
- Cotton: 3-5% shrinkage
- Linen: 5-10% shrinkage
- Rayon: 3-5% shrinkage
- Polyester: Minimal shrinkage
- Wool: Can shrink significantly - dry clean or hand wash