Same quilt, every precut
Estimates for simple layouts: squares sewn edge to edge, or an all-strip quilt. Precut edges are often pinked, so measure point to point and sew an accurate ¼" seam. Always check the piece count on the product you buy.
Precut Reference Chart
Squares sewn edge to edge and all-strip quilts, with standard packs (42 squares per stack or charm pack, 40 strips per roll) and the "at least this size" rule. Sizes match our quilt size chart.
| Quilt | 10" squares | 5" charms | 2.5" strips | Fat quarters (as 10" squares) | Fat quarters (as 5" squares) | Binding strips (2½" × width of fabric) |
|---|
| Crib 36" × 52" | 24 squares: 1 stack (38" × 57") | 96: 3 packs | 24: 1 roll | 12 | 8 | 5 |
| Throw 50" × 65" | 42 squares: 1 stack (57" × 66½") | 180: 5 packs | 41: 2 rolls (1 roll makes 50" × 64") | 21 | 15 | 6 |
| Twin 70" × 90" | 80 squares: 2 stacks (76" × 95") | 320: 8 packs | 79: 2 rolls | 40 | 27 | 9 |
| Full 81" × 96" | 99 squares: 3 stacks (85½" × 104½") | 396: 10 packs | 98: 3 rolls | 50 | 33 | 10 |
| Queen 90" × 108" | 120 squares: 3 stacks (95" × 114") | 480: 12 packs | 122: 4 rolls (3 rolls make about 90" × 106") | 60 | 40 | 11 |
| King 110" × 108" | 144 squares: 4 stacks (114" × 114") | 600: 15 packs | 149: 4 rolls | 72 | 50 | 12 |
How We Calculate
- Squares: each square loses ½" to two ¼" seams, so a 10" square finishes at 9½", a 5" square at 4½" and a 2½" square at 2". Squares across = quilt width ÷ finished size, squares down = quilt length ÷ finished size, each rounded up ("at least this size") or to the nearest whole square ("closest size"). Packs = squares ÷ pieces per pack, rounded up.
- 2½" strips: for an all-strip quilt, each strip finishes 2" wide with about 40" of usable length after trimming selvages, so one strip covers about 80 square inches and a 40-strip roll about 3,200. Strips = quilt area ÷ 80, rounded up.
- Fat quarters: we assume 18" × 21" of usable fabric, which cuts two 10" squares, twelve 5" squares, fifty-six 2½" squares, or seven 2½" strips about 21" long.
- Binding: the perimeter plus 10" for joining, divided by 40" per strip, rounded up.
- Borders: a border shrinks the patchwork area. Buy border fabric as yardage.
These are estimates for simple layouts. If you are following a pattern, its fabric requirements win. Piece counts vary by brand, so check the listing and change the pack size in the calculator.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many layer cakes do I need for a queen quilt?
Three 42-piece stacks for a 90" × 108" queen sewn edge to edge. That is 120 squares in a 10 × 12 layout, finishing at 95" × 114". A border lets you use fewer squares.
How many jelly rolls do I need for a throw quilt?
One 40-strip roll makes an all-strip top of about 50" × 64". A 50" × 65" throw needs 41 strips, so add a narrow border or a second roll.
What size quilt does one charm pack make?
A 42-piece charm pack sewn 6 × 7 finishes at 27" × 31½", a doll or baby quilt top. Most throws need four to five packs.
How many fat quarters do I need for a quilt?
Cut into 10" squares, about 21 fat quarters for a 50" × 65" throw and 60 for a 90" × 108" queen. Cut into 5" squares, about 15 and 40.
Do precuts include seam allowance?
Yes. A 10" square is cut at 10" and finishes at 9½" once it is sewn on all sides with ¼" seams.
Shop all fabric and precuts · Layer cakes and 10" squares · Jelly rolls and 2½" strips · Charm packs · Fat quarter bundles
Learn more: Precut Fabric Explained · How Many 10" Squares Do I Need? · How Many Jelly Roll Strips Do I Need? · What Is Island Batik? · Quilt batting calculator
