Browser-only draft. Export or print to keep a copy.
Finished and unfinished are different measurements
Choose finished or unfinished measurements. With ¼-inch seams, a 6-inch finished block is 6½ inches unfinished. Width and length can differ.
For patchwork, these are outer dimensions; internal pieces need their own pattern.
Calculate a grid without sashing
Finished width = columns × block width. Length = rows × block length. Five columns and seven rows of 6-inch blocks make a 30 × 42-inch center.
Five columns × seven rows, 6-inch finished squares, ¼-inch seams
Measurement
Dimension
Plain square cut size
6½ × 6½ inches
Finished grid
30 × 42 inches
Unfinished outer measurement
30½ × 42½ inches
When the grid does not fit your target
No sashing, cornerstones or on-point setting triangles are included. Compare the bed-size target, then use borders or adjust the block count.
Turn block count into fabric quantities
Take plain-square counts to the fabric calculator. For patchwork, count the actual components. Test a block and short row first; seam accuracy changes sewn dimensions.
Last reviewed .
Questions about this calculation
What size should I cut a 6-inch finished square?
With ¼-inch seam allowances on every edge, cut it 6½ inches square. Other seam allowances change the cut size.
Does the grid include sashing?
No. The blocks join directly together. Sashing, cornerstones, borders and setting triangles are not included.
Does block count tell me the yardage for a pieced block?
No. Count each component in the actual block pattern. The plain-square fabric calculator applies only when the entire block is one square.
Selvedge