Quilt Backing Panels Calculator
Backing size = quilt size plus an allowance on each edge. Compare panels in both directions; the seams use part of each fabric width.
No account needed. Calculations stay in your browser.
Enter values from 0 to 1,000,000,000. Positive measurements must be at least 0.001; stitch counts and repeats must be whole numbers.
- Required backing
- 68 × 88 in
- Lengthwise panels
- 2 at 88 in long; joined width 79 in; 4.889 yd before extra allowances
- Rotated panels
- 3 at 68 in long; joined width 118 in; 5.667 yd before extra allowances
How the calculation works
Add twice the edge allowance to each quilt dimension. For n panels, joined width = n × usable width − 2 × seam allowance × (n − 1). Choose the smallest whole n that covers the required width. Multiply n by the required panel length and divide by 36 for yards. Repeat with the dimensions exchanged.
Worked example
A 60 × 80 inch quilt with 4 inches extra per edge needs 68 × 88 inches. With 40-inch fabric and half-inch seams, two 88-inch panels join to 79 inches wide and use 176 inches, or 4.889 yards. Rotated panels need three 68-inch lengths, or 5.667 yards.
Check before you start
These are equal-length straight panels with seams parallel to the cut length. Yardage excludes shrinkage, squaring, print matching and shop cutting increments. Round your purchase up and add those allowances separately. Confirm the required backing overhang and seam direction with your quilter before cutting.
These calculations use the dimensions you enter and the stated layout rules. They do not measure fabric shrinkage, yarn tension or your working pace.
Next steps
- Quilt Binding and Backing Yardage Calculator Guide
- Quilt Batting Sizes Chart: What Size to Buy
- How Much Fabric Do I Need for a Quilt?
- Open the quilt pattern generator
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