Definition
Yardage is the amount of fabric a pattern needs, given in yards or meters for each fabric width, depending on the size, the view and any nap or print matching.
Fabric is sold by length off a roll of fixed width, so the quantity you need depends on that width. A skirt might need 2.2 m (2 3/8 yd) of 110 cm (45 in) fabric but only 1.4 m (1 1/2 yd) of 150 cm (60 in) fabric, because more pieces fit side by side.
Useful conversions:
| Metric | Imperial |
|---|---|
| 1 m | 1.09 yd, about 39 3/8 in |
| 91.4 cm | 1 yd (36 in) |
| 110 cm wide | 45 in wide |
| 140 cm wide | 55 in wide |
| 150 cm wide | 60 in wide |
Buy extra when:
- The fabric will shrink in the prewash. Cotton and linen often shrink 3 to 5%, so add about 10%.
- It has a nap or a one-way print, which stops you turning pieces around to save space.
- You match plaids, stripes or large motifs. Add one pattern repeat per main piece length.
Sewly gives fabric quantities for 110, 140 and 150 cm (45, 55 and 60 in) wide fabric with the cutting layouts, for your size and options. To estimate any project, use the fabric yardage calculator, and see how much fabric do I need? and cutting layout.