What this calculator does
Most quilt cutting follows the same pattern: cut strips across the width of the fabric, then cut those strips into squares or rectangles. Working out the yardage by hand means dividing the fabric width by the piece size, rounding down, dividing the number of pieces by that, rounding up, and multiplying by the strip height. This calculator does all of that and gives you a cutting plan you can follow at the mat.
It also tells you how many pieces fit in a fat quarter, so you can tell at a glance whether your stash will cover a scrappy quilt.
How to use it
- Enter the cut size of one piece. Fractions such as
2 1/2work. - Enter how many pieces you need.
- Cut the number of strips shown at the strip height shown, then sub-cut each strip.
The math
pieces per strip = round down (usable width ÷ piece width)
strips = round up (pieces ÷ pieces per strip)
yards = strips × strip height ÷ 36, rounded up to 1/8
For 42 five-inch squares: 42 ÷ 5 = 8 squares per strip. 42 ÷ 8 = 5.25, so 6 strips. 6 × 5 = 30 inches, which rounds up to 7/8 yard.
Examples
| Pieces | How many | Strips | Yardage | Per fat quarter |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2½″ squares | 100 | 7 | 1/2 yd | 56 |
| 5″ charm squares | 42 | 6 | 7/8 yd | 12 |
| 10″ layer cake squares | 42 | 11 | 3 1/8 yd | 2 |
| 2½ × 4½″ rectangles | 60 | 4 | 1/2 yd | 32 |
Leftovers count. The last strip is often only partly used. Keep the remainder with your scraps: a 2½ inch wide leftover is perfect for a scrappy binding later.
Questions people ask
Should I enter the finished or the cut size?
The cut size, including seam allowances. A square that finishes at 4 inches is cut 4½ inches.
What size is a fat quarter?
About 18 × 22 inches: a half yard cut in half along the fold. After squaring up, plan on roughly 18 × 21 inches, which is what this calculator uses.
Why does the calculator try both directions?
A rectangle can be cut from strips as tall as its short side or its long side. One way usually fits more pieces across the fabric, so we try both and keep whichever needs less yardage.
Does this include extra for mistakes?
No. It is the exact amount, rounded up to the next 1/8 yard. If you are new to rotary cutting, add one extra strip.