Quilt Backing Calculator

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Quilt Backing Calculator

The Quilt Backing Calculator is designed to help you determine the fabric requirements for creating a quilt backing, including the total fabric yardage needed. Follow these steps to efficiently use the calculator:

Step 1: Enter Quilt Dimensions

• Quilt Width: Input the width of your quilt in inches. Ensure that the value is between 1 and 120 inches. Use increments of 0.25 inches if necessary.
• Quilt Length: Input the length of your quilt in inches. Similarly, ensure the value is within 1 to 120 inches, using increments of 0.25 inches if needed.

Step 2: Select Backing Fabric Width

Choose the width of the fabric you’ll use for the backing from the provided options. These options include:

• 42 inches (Standard)
• 44 inches
• 54 inches
• 60 inches
• 90 inches (Wide Backing)
• 108 inches (Extra Wide Backing)

This selection helps the calculator assess how many panels of fabric are necessary to cover the quilt.

Step 3: Determine Desired Overhang

Input the desired overhang in inches. This is the extra fabric you’d like to extend beyond the edge of the quilt, typically used for securing during quilting. Enter a value between 2 and 12 inches, with increments of 0.5 inches.

Step 4: Calculate Backing Requirements

After providing the necessary inputs, the calculator will compute and display the following values:

• Required Backing Width: The total width of fabric needed, calculated by adding twice the overhang to the quilt width.
• Required Backing Length: The total length of fabric needed, similarly calculated by adding twice the overhang to the quilt length.
• Number of Width Panels Needed: The total number of fabric panels required to achieve the desired backing width, based on the selected fabric width.
• Number of Length Panels Needed: The total number of fabric panels needed to reach the required backing length.
• Total Yardage Needed: The overall amount of fabric yardage necessary to complete the quilt backing, expressed in yards.

Conclusion

Using the Quilt Backing Calculator is an efficient way to gather precise fabric measurements, which helps in planning and purchasing the needed materials for quilt backings. By systematically inputting quilt dimensions, selecting an appropriate fabric width, and deciding on the overhang, the calculator provides a comprehensive summary of fabric requirements for your quilt project.