Fabric Yardage Chart: How Much Fabric for Common Projects
This chart gives you starting-point yardage estimates for common sewing projects. These assume 54-inch wide fabric with no pattern repeat. Add 10 to 20 percent for pattern matching, shrinkage, and cutting errors.
| Project | Fabric Width | Yards Needed | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dining chair seat | 54" | 0.5 - 0.75 | Seat only, no back |
| Dining chair with back | 54" | 1 - 1.5 | Includes seat and back |
| Armchair | 54" | 6 - 8 | Full reupholstery |
| Loveseat | 54" | 10 - 12 | Full reupholstery |
| Standard sofa | 54" | 12 - 16 | Full reupholstery |
| Sectional sofa | 54" | 18 - 24 | Full reupholstery |
| Throw pillow (18") | 54" | 0.5 | Two pillows per half yard |
| Throw pillow (24") | 54" | 0.75 | Two pillows per 3/4 yard |
| Curtains (per panel, 84" drop) | 54" | 3 - 4 | Depends on fullness ratio |
| Quilt backing (twin) | 90" | 5 - 6 | Extra wide backing fabric |
| Quilt backing (queen) | 90" | 7 - 8 | Extra wide backing fabric |
| Quilt binding | 45" | 0.5 | For any size quilt |
| Tote bag | 45" | 0.75 - 1 | Including straps |
| Simple dress | 45" | 3 - 4 | Depends on style and size |
| Men's shirt | 45" | 2 - 2.5 | Long sleeve |
| Baby blanket (30x40") | 45" | 1.5 | Single layer |
| Table runner (14x72") | 45" | 1 | With hem allowance |
| Place mats (set of 4) | 45" | 1 | 14x20 inches each |
How to Read This Chart
Find your project in the first column. The yards listed assume 54-inch wide fabric unless noted otherwise. If your fabric is 45 inches wide, add about 15 percent more yardage. If you have a pattern repeat of 12 inches or more, add 20 to 30 percent. Always pre-wash before cutting.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much fabric do I need to reupholster a sofa?+
A standard sofa needs 12 to 16 yards of 54-inch fabric. A sectional needs 18 to 24 yards. Add 2 to 3 yards if you have a large pattern repeat or directional design.
Does fabric width affect how many yards I need?+
Yes, significantly. Wider fabric means fewer yards needed. If a project calls for 4 yards of 45-inch fabric, you might only need 3 yards of 60-inch fabric. Always check the bolt width.
How much extra should I buy for pattern matching?+
For repeats under 6 inches: add 10 percent. For 6 to 12 inch repeats: add 20 percent. For repeats over 12 inches: add 30 percent or more. Directional patterns need extra too.
How many yards for a queen size quilt backing?+
With 90-inch wide backing fabric: 7 to 8 yards. With 45-inch fabric, you'll need to piece it: about 10 to 12 yards. Always add 8 inches to each dimension beyond the quilt top size.