Fabric Yardage Conversion Chart for Quilters and Sewers

Why a quick conversion chart matters

Quilting and sewing patterns often list fabric in fractions of a yard, but cutting and layout decisions are easier when you think in inches. That gap between "pattern yardage" and the pieces you actually cut is where mistakes and wasted fabric happen. Keep a short conversion chart near your cutting mat and you'll save time and avoid guesswork.

Standard yardage conversions you should memorize

These conversions are all based on 1 yard = 36 inches. Commit a few common ones to memory and tape a small chart to your workspace.

• 1/8 yard = 4.5 inches
• 1/4 yard = 9 inches
• 1/3 yard = 12 inches
• 3/8 yard = 13.5 inches
• 1/2 yard = 18 inches
• 5/8 yard = 22.5 inches
• 2/3 yard = 24 inches
• 3/4 yard = 27 inches
• 7/8 yard = 31.5 inches
• 1 yard = 36 inches

• Check whether a leftover piece is large enough for blocks or binding.

• Plan borders, backing, and binding where the difference of an inch or two matters.
• Compare sale bolt sizes when buying multiple pieces.

The difference between yardage and fabric width

Concrete sewing and quilting examples

• 1/4 yard (9 in): Often about 9 × 44 in for quilting cotton. Good for small contrast pieces, applique, or linings.
• 1/2 yard (18 in): About 18 × 44 in. Common for binding, small bag panels, or feature fabric for small projects.
• 5/8 yard (22.5 in): A frequent pattern requirement because it gives a little extra length beyond a half yard for layouts needing wiggle room.
• 3/4 yard (27 in): Useful for borders, medium bag pieces, or simple garment sections.

If you forget the chart, multiply the yard amount by 36. Examples:

• 1/2 × 36 = 18 in
• 1/4 × 36 = 9 in
• 5/8 × 36 = 22.5 in
• 3/4 × 36 = 27 in

Where to place your chart and when to use it