How do I calculate fabric with a pattern repeat?

To match patterns, you need extra fabric. The general rule is to add the length of one vertical repeat for every 'cut' or panel you need. For example, if you need 4 panels of 50 inches, and the repeat is 10 inches, you calculate based on multiples of the repeat (e.g., 50 rounded up to nearest 10 is 50, plus one repeat = 60 inches per panel).

What is a standard fabric width?

Most upholstery and home decor fabrics are 54 inches (137 cm) wide. Fashion fabrics are often 45 inches (115 cm) or 60 inches (150 cm) wide. Always check the bolt width before calculating.

How much extra should I buy for mistakes?

It is standard practice to add 10-15% for solid colors and 20-25% for patterned fabrics to account for cutting errors, shrinking, and pattern matching alignment.

What is 'Railroaded' fabric?

Railroaded means the pattern runs sideways (perpendicular to the bolt length), allowing you to cover wide furniture (like a sofa back) without seams. 'Up the roll' means the pattern runs up the bolt length.

How many yards is 1 meter?

1 meter is approximately 1.09 yards. To convert meters to yards, multiply by 1.09. To convert yards to meters, multiply by 0.91.

✂️ Fabric Yardage Calculator

Estimate Fabric Needs with Pattern Repeats

Total Length Needed (inches)

Sum of all cuts (e.g., 2 panels × 50")

Number of Cuts/Panels

Fabric Width (inches)

Vertical Repeat (inches)

Distance between repeating pattern

✂️ Fabric Calculation Guide

Buying the right amount of fabric is crucial. Too little means your project fails; too much is a waste of money. The biggest factor often overlooked is the Pattern Repeat.

Understanding Pattern Repeat

If your fabric has a flower that repeats every 14 inches, you can't just cut panels randomly. You must align the pattern so the flowers match at the seams. This requires extra fabric.

Rule of Thumb: Add one full vertical repeat for every cut/panel you make.

Standard Yardage Chart (Estimates)

Dining Chair Seat: 0.75 yards (Solid) / 1 yard (Pattern)
Club Chair: 6-7 yards (Solid) / 8-9 yards (Pattern)
3-Cushion Sofa: 14-16 yards (Solid) / 18-20 yards (Pattern)
Throw Pillow (18"): 0.5 yards (makes 1) / 1 yard (makes 2)

💡 From Maria Gonzalez, Professional Upholsterer (18 years):

"Always, ALWAYS round up to the nearest half yard. If the calculator says 4.1 yards, buy 4.5 or even 5. Fabric is cheap compared to the labor of having to restart because you were 2 inches short. Also, check if the fabric is 'railroaded'—this can save you seams on wide furniture!"

⚠️ Common Mistakes

1. Ignoring the Repeat: A 27-inch repeat (common for large florals) can increase your fabric needs by 30-40%. Never calculate based on solid yardage for a large print.

2. Forgetting "Nap": Velvet and chenille have a direction (nap). If you cut one panel upside down to save fabric, it will look a different color due to light reflection. All panels must run the same way.

3. Not Measuring Width: Don't assume 54". Some designer silks are only 40" wide, meaning you might need double the yardage for curtains.

Reviewed by Maria Gonzalez

Master Upholsterer & Seamstress, 18 years experience in custom furniture and drapery.

✂️ Fabric Calculation Guide

Understanding Pattern Repeat

Standard Yardage Chart (Estimates)

⚠️ Common Mistakes

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