Plan yardage for a grid of repeated plain squares. This calculator turns a square count into crosswise strips; it does not decode a pieced-block pattern.
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Begin with a finished square size
Cut square = finished square + two seam allowances. A 6-inch finished square with ¼-inch seams is cut 6½ inches. This counts plain squares, not internal patchwork pieces.
A 35-square yardage example
A 5 × 7 grid needs 35 squares. At 42 usable inches, each 6½-inch strip yields six squares. Six strips can yield 36, using 39 inches: about 1.08 yards, rounded to 1¼.
Repeated plain-square cutting example
Quantity
Result
Squares required
35
Cut square
6½ × 6½ inches
Squares per strip
6
Strips required
6
Cutting length
39 inches
Calculate each fabric separately
Calculate each color separately because full-strip rounding can differ. Exclude selvages from usable width. Shrinkage, matching and fussy cutting need separate allowances.
Use the right calculator for each component
Use blocks for grid dimensions, borders for a frame, or hexagons for shaped pieces. Backing and binding are separate.
Last reviewed .
Questions about this calculation
Does this estimate fabric for any quilt pattern?
No. It calculates repeated plain squares cut from crosswise strips. Pieced blocks, triangles, sashing and shaped pieces require their own cutting plans.
Can I enter a cut-square size instead?
The square-size field is a finished size. Subtract two seam allowances from a known cut size before using that field, and check the displayed cut size.
Is the rounded yardage a shrinkage allowance?
No. It rounds the geometric cutting length up to a quarter yard. Preparation, matching and cutting-error allowances remain your decision.
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