SeeMyQuiltQuilt backing calculator
Enter the size of your quilt top. You get the yardage and how many lengths to seam together.
- Backing size 62" × 74"
- 2 lengths of 62", seamed across the quilt
Backing chart for standard quilt sizes
| Quilt | Top size | Backing size | Lengths | Yardage (42" fabric) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baby | 36" × 48" | 44" × 56" | 2 | 3 1/4 yd |
| Crib | 45" × 60" | 53" × 68" | 2 | 4 yd |
| Lap | 48" × 60" | 56" × 68" | 2 | 4 yd |
| Throw | 60" × 72" | 68" × 80" | 2 | 4 1/2 yd |
| Twin | 72" × 96" | 80" × 104" | 2 | 6 yd |
| Full | 84" × 96" | 92" × 104" | 3 | 8 3/4 yd |
| Queen | 96" × 96" | 104" × 104" | 3 | 8 3/4 yd |
| King | 108" × 108" | 116" × 116" | 3 | 9 3/4 yd |
How it is calculated
The backing must be larger than the quilt top so it can shift during quilting. Add 4" to every side. Longarm quilters often ask for this much; for quilting at home 2" to 3" per side is enough.
If the backing is narrower than the fabric, one length is enough. If it is wider, divide by the fabric width and round up to get the number of lengths, then multiply by the backing length. The calculator also tries running the seams across the quilt and picks whichever uses less fabric.
For a 54" × 66" lap quilt the backing is 62" × 74". Two lengths of 74" side by side is 148", or 4 1/4 yards.
Questions
How much backing do I need for a twin quilt?
A 72" × 96" twin quilt needs a backing of 80" × 104". That is 2 lengths of 104", or 6 yd of 42" fabric.
Where should the backing seam go?
With two lengths the seam can run down the middle. Many quilters split one length and sew the halves to either side of a full length, so no seam sits on the center fold.
More finishing calculators
Get SeeMyQuilt on your iPhone and iPad
The app is in the works. Join the early list and help decide what goes in.
- 220+ traditional blocks with cutting charts
- Sashing, on-point and alternating settings
- 30 quilting calculators in your pocket
- Save projects and share the picture