fabric calculator
Pick a garment, size and fabric width to get a realistic yardage estimate, with extra built in for directional prints, pattern matching and pre-washing.
fashion law journal · tools deskupdated 25 sep 2026yards & metres
Quick answer: a knee-length shift dress in a medium size takes about 2¾ yards (2.5 m) of 45-inch fabric, or 2 yards (1.8 m) of 60-inch fabric. Wider fabric needs less length. Add 10 to 25% for plaids, stripes and napped fabrics like velvet, and about 5% if you’ll pre-wash a shrinkable fibre.
fabric yardage chart
| garment | 45 in · S | 45 in · M | 45 in · L | 60 in · S | 60 in · M | 60 in · L |
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Figures are in yards, for the main fabric only, based on typical commercial pattern requirements. Linings, facings and interfacing are extra. Your pattern envelope always wins.
label it before you sell it
If you sell clothes you’ve made, labelling law applies. In the US, the Textile Fiber Products Identification Act requires fibre content, country of origin and the maker’s identity on most apparel. The FTC’s Care Labeling Rule requires care instructions. In the EU, Regulation 1007/2011 sets the fibre names you must use.
Decode the symbols with our care label symbol decoder.
cutting tips
- Pre-wash cotton, linen and rayon before cutting. They can shrink 3 to 5%.
- Lay out all pattern pieces before buying if you can. The chart is an estimate.
- Napped fabrics (velvet, corduroy, faux fur) must be cut in one direction, which uses more fabric.
- Buy a little extra from the same bolt. Dye lots can differ.
fabric questions
How much fabric do I need for a dress?
A knee-length dress in a medium size usually needs about 2 to 2¾ yards, depending on width. A maxi dress needs 3 to 4¼ yards. Sleeves, full skirts and ruffles add more.
How many metres is a yard?
One yard is 0.9144 metres, so 2 yards is about 1.83 m. One metre is about 1.09 yards.
Does fabric width matter?
Yes. Wider fabric fits more pattern pieces side by side, so you need less length. Switching from 45-inch to 60-inch fabric usually cuts the length needed by about a quarter to a third.
How much extra should I buy?
Add 10% for directional prints or nap, 15 to 25% to match plaids or stripes, and 5% if you’ll pre-wash a fabric that shrinks.
Estimates for planning. Always check your pattern’s own requirements. Not legal advice. More from FLJ: markup calculator · care label symbol decoder.