02 / CRAFT & BAKING
Quilt backing calculator.
Compare fabric panel layouts, seam allowances and yardage.
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Questions & answers
Is extra backing added to every side?
Yes. Entering 4 inches adds 8 inches to both quilt dimensions. A 60 × 80 inch quilt needs 68 × 88 inches before considering piecing seams. Confirm the required extra with your quilter; the example is not a universal longarm requirement.
How do fabric width and seams affect the result?
Use the width available after selvages are removed. Each seam consumes an allowance from both joined edges, so two 42-inch panels joined with a ½-inch allowance make an 83-inch-wide backing.
Should I always choose the layout using less fabric?
Check grain, directional prints and your quilter's seam preference first. This estimate uses full-width panels and does not add fabric for shrinkage, print matching or extra squaring. Purchase rounding does not guarantee enough for those additions.