Sewing fabric yardage calculator
Estimate the fabric yardage needed to make a garment or home item.
Fabric needed depends on three factors: the garment, its size, and the fabric width (the roll's width). Wider fabric lets you cut more pieces side by side, so fewer linear metres. Standard widths are 90, 115, 140 and 150 cm.
Our estimate is based on standard adult sizes (38-42 women, 48-52 men) and a pattern without special difficulty. For XXL and above, add 0.2 to 0.5 m. For matching patterns (stripes, plaids), add 30 to 50% more.
Typical fabric needs (140 cm width)
| Garment type | 140 cm |
|---|---|
| T-shirt | 1.5 m |
| Blouse | 2 m |
| Sweater / Sweatshirt | 2 m |
| Short skirt | 1 m |
| Long skirt | 2 m |
| Short dress | 2 m |
| Long dress | 3.5 m |
| Trousers | 2 m |
| Jacket / Blazer | 2.5 m |
| Coat | 3.5 m |
| T-shirt | 1.6 m |
| Shirt | 2.2 m |
| Trousers | 2.2 m |
| Jacket / Blazer | 2.8 m |
| Coat | 3.8 m |
| Kids T-shirt | 0.8 m |
| Kids dress | 1.2 m |
| Kids trousers | 1.2 m |
| Pillowcase | 0.7 m |
| Double flat sheet | 3.5 m |
| Cushion cover | 0.6 m |
| Kitchen apron | 0.8 m |
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate for XXL?
Add 0.2 to 0.5 m to the indicated yardage. For an XXL coat, plan +0.5 m. For an XXL t-shirt, +0.2 m is enough. Our estimate is calibrated for 38-42 (women) and 48-52 (men).
What is fabric width (laize)?
It's the width of the roll, perpendicular to the cutting direction. Common widths: 90 cm (printed cotton), 115 cm (poplin), 140 cm (most common), 150 cm (wool). The wider the fabric, the fewer metres you need.
How much extra for matching patterns?
For vertical stripes, +20%. For plaids, +30 to 50% depending on repeat. For random prints, no extra. Border or panel prints require case-by-case.
Should I plan a margin for cutting errors?
Yes, add 10 to 20 cm to the total for cutting errors and seam allowances (1.5 to 2 cm per seam). For beginners, +30 cm is reasonable.