Sew Measure

Sewing calculator

Rectangular Fabric Yardage Calculator (Yards from a Cut Plan)

Compare both legal orientations for repeated rectangular cuts and convert the tighter plan into purchase yards.

Your measurements

Use one unit for every dimension in this form.

Use the usable width stated by the seller.

Enter the cut width, including allowances.

Enter the cut height, including allowances.

How many identical pieces you need.

Amount kept clear along each selvage edge.

Enter zero for a solid or non-matched fabric.

Permit a 90-degree turn when the fabric allows it.

Select for nap, one-way prints, or directional grain.

Optional percentage added before cutting waste.

Optional percentage for layout and cutting waste.

Rectangle yardage result

Orientation
as-entered
Layout length
24.00 in
Fabric to buy
0.750 yd
Selected rectangular layoutA scaled planning diagram. Use the matching text result and cut list for exact dimensions.2 rows4 pieces
Selected rectangular layout. The drawing is scaled for comparison; written dimensions control.

Formula

Both legal 90-degree orientations are compared and the shorter deterministic row layout is selected.

Assumptions

  • All pieces share one rectangular size.
  • Directional fabric prevents rotation.

When a tested commercial pattern gives different cutting dimensions or layout instructions, follow that pattern.

Worked example

  • 45 in fabric
  • Four 20 × 12 in rectangles

The shorter legal orientation is shown alongside the alternative length for a direct comparison.

Verification note

Make a quick paper sketch using the reported row count before committing to the cut.

Learn and verify

Questions from search

How many yards of fabric do I need for rectangles?

Divide usable fabric width by piece width to get pieces per row, divide quantity by that count, then multiply rows by piece height and convert to yards.

Which way should rectangles be cut?

Try both orientations. The calculator keeps the one that uses less length when rotation is allowed and the fabric is not directional.