Comprehensive Guide to Quilt Sizing

Welcome to the Quilty Pleasures blog! Ready to dive into your next sewing adventure? Whether you’re stitching up a baby quilt or a show-stopping king-size beauty, knowing the right quilt size and how much fabric you’ll need is the key to a stress-free project. This guide is packed with a handy quilt size chart and yardage estimates to get you cutting and sewing with confidence. Let’s sew something together!

Why Quilt Sizes & Yardage Matter

Quilts are as unique as the quilters who make them—some are square, some are rectangular, and some might even have a charmingly wonky shape (no judgment here!). But when you’re crafting for a specific bed or purpose, standard sizes help ensure your quilt fits just right. Plus, knowing how much fabric to buy saves you from those “oops, I ran out!” moments at the sewing machine.

If you’re quilting for a bed, measure the mattress and add 8–12 inches on each side for that perfect overhang. For lap quilts or baby blankets, you’ve got more wiggle room to play with sizes. And don’t forget about batting and backing—they need a little extra fabric to keep everything snug during quilting. Let’s check out the sizes and fabric needs below!

(Heres a quick printable guide to Quilt Sizing)

Standard Quilt Sizes & Yardage Chart

Here’s your trusty quilt size chart, complete with standard dimensions and approximate fabric yardage for the quilt top, backing, and binding. These sizes are flexible, so tweak them to match your vibe. Yardage assumes 42-inch-wide quilting cotton, standard ¼-inch seam allowances, and a simple patchwork design—fancy patterns may need more!

Notes:

• Quilt Top Yardage: Varies based on pattern complexity. Simple patchwork needs less; intricate designs like appliqué or pieced blocks may need more.

• Backing Yardage: Assumes a single piece of fabric or pieced backing with a 4-inch overhang for longarm quilting. For wider quilts (over 42"), you’ll need to seam two lengths of fabric together.

• Binding Yardage: Based on 2.5-inch-wide strips for double-fold binding. Add extra if you prefer wider binding or mitered corners.

Tips to Make Your Quilt Look Professional

1. Measure Twice, Cut Once: For bed quilts, measure your mattress (width, length, and depth) and add 8–12 inches per side for overhang. Got a super thick mattress? Add a bit more length for full coverage.

2. Pick Your Purpose: Are you crafting a cuddly lap quilt, a baby snuggler, or a bed topper? Throws and baby quilts can be more flexible in size, while bed quilts should stick closer to standard dimensions.

3. Batting & Backing Basics:

   • Home Quilting: Add 2–4 inches of batting and backing on all sides to account for shifting while basting and quilting.

   • Longarm Quilting: Most longarm quilters need a 4-inch overhang on batting and backing. Double-check with your quilter to avoid surprises!

   • Pre-Cut vs. Custom Batting: Pre-cut batting comes in standard sizes but may not always cover overhang needs. Buying a roll and cutting it yourself gives you more control.

4. Fabric Math Made Easy:

   • Most quilting cotton is 42–44 inches wide, so plan your yardage accordingly. For wide quilts (like king or queen), you’ll likely need to piece the backing.

   • Pre-wash your fabric to prevent shrinkage later—especially for baby quilts that’ll see lots of laundry love. Expect up to 4 inches of shrinkage if you skip this step.

   • Binding typically requires 2.5-inch strips. For a queen quilt, you’ll need about 10 strips (cut across the width of fabric) to cover the perimeter.

5. Pattern Power: New to quilting? Start with a simple patchwork or strip quilt—they’re beginner-friendly and easy to adjust for any size. Check out patterns like  Reading in the Sunshine  or Peaceful Pinwheels for some crafty inspo!

6. Longarm Love: If you’re tackling a big quilt (hello, king size!), consider hiring a longarm quilter. They’ll add gorgeous designs like swirls or waves to make your quilt pop. Just ensure your backing and batting have that 4-inch overhang.

(Click Here for A Longarm Quilting Pattern!)

Quilt Size Breakdown: What’s Right for You?

Baby Quilts (30" x 40")

These pint-sized treasures are perfect for swaddling or tummy time. At 1–1.5 yards for the top, they’re a quick project for gifting new parents. Add a soft flannel backing for extra snuggle power!

Crib/Toddler Quilts (36" x 52")

Sized for standard crib mattresses, these quilts are great for little ones. You’ll need about 1.5–2 yards for the top and 1.5 yards for the backing. Pro tip: Bright colors and bold patterns make these extra fun for kids.

Throw/Lap Quilts (50" x 65")

The ultimate cozy companion for movie nights or porch swings! Use 2.5–3 yards for the top and 3 yards for the backing. Mix and match fat quarters for a scrappy, cheerful look.

Twin & Extra Long Twin Quilts (70" x 90" or 70" x 95")

Great for kids’ rooms or dorm beds, these quilts need 5–6.5 yards for the top and about 5.5–5.75 yards for the backing. The extra-long twin is perfect for taller teens or college students.

Double/Full Quilts (85" x 108")

A versatile size for guest rooms or smaller master bedrooms. Plan for 7–8 yards for the quilt top and 6 yards for the backing. This size is a sweet spot for showing off bold patterns.

Queen Quilts (90" x 108")

The go-to for most master bedrooms, queen quilts need 8–9 yards for the top and 6.5 yards for the backing. They’re a big project but oh-so-rewarding when draped over a bed!

King Quilts (110" x 108")

These giants are a labor of love, requiring 9–10 yards for the top and 7.5 yards for the backing. Consider a longarm quilter to tackle the quilting for a professional finish.

California King Quilts (106" x 112")

Slightly narrower but longer than a standard king, these quilts also need 9–10 yards for the top and 7.5 yards for the backing. Perfect for tall sleepers or unique bed setups.

Final Stitches

With this guide in hand, you’re ready to pick the perfect quilt size and stock up on just the right amount of fabric. Whether you’re sewing for a crib, couch, or king-size bed, a little planning goes a long way to making your quilt a cozy masterpiece. So grab your rotary cutter, pick some fabrics that spark joy, and let’s get stitching!

What’s your next quilting project? Drop a comment below and share your plans—I’d love to hear what you’re creating! For more patterns and tips, swing by sewphancy.com. Happy quilting!

(Peaceful Pinwheels Pattern)