Quilt Fabric Calculator
Built by Johnny Alto · free, no sign-up · updated July 26, 2026
Planning a simple squares or patchwork quilt? Enter the finished quilt size and the finished size of each square to find how many squares you need, the size to cut them, and roughly how much fabric that takes. It assumes a grid of same-size squares and a quarter-inch seam allowance.
Squares needed00 x 0
Cut each0inches square
Fabric (single print)0yards total
Yardage is the total across all squares. For a scrappy or multi-fabric quilt, divide the total by how many prints you are using. Round up to allow for cutting and trimming.
How much fabric for a squares quilt?
A simple patchwork quilt is a grid of same-size squares. Divide the finished quilt width and length by the finished square size to see how many squares fit across and down; multiply those together for the total number of squares. The calculator rounds up so the grid always covers the quilt.
Each square is cut larger than its finished size so the seams have somewhere to go. With a quarter-inch seam allowance you add half an inch, so a six-inch finished square is cut at six and a half inches. To estimate fabric, the calculator works out how many cut squares fit across a width of fabric and down a yard, then divides the total squares by that.
Single fabric or scrappy?
The yardage shown is the total if every square came from one print. Most quilts use several fabrics, so divide the total by how many prints you plan to use to get the amount of each. Always buy a little extra to allow for cutting mistakes and squaring up, and remember this covers the patchwork only, not backing, binding, or borders.
Recommended gear
Cut accurate squares
Frequently asked questions
How much fabric do I need to make a quilt?
For a squares quilt, divide the finished size by your square size to get the number of squares, then work out how many cut squares come from a yard of fabric. The calculator does both and gives total yardage.
What size should I cut quilt squares?
Cut each square its finished size plus twice the seam allowance. With a quarter-inch seam that is finished size plus half an inch, so a five-inch finished square is cut at 5.5 inches.
How many squares are in a quilt?
Divide the quilt width and length by the finished square size and multiply. A 60 by 72 inch quilt made of six-inch squares is a 10 by 12 grid, or 120 squares.
Does this include backing and binding?
No. This estimates the patchwork top only. Use the backing and binding calculators for those, since they are figured differently.
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This calculator gives estimates for planning only; always confirm against your own measurements and species research. Some links are to our buying guides, which contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
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