How Much Fabric for a Cushion Cover? Yardage by Size and Fabric Width
Plan about 3/4 yd of 45 inch fabric or 5/8 yd of 60 inch fabric for a 18 in form, envelope back cushion cover in size 18 in. Across the sizes in our chart it ranges from 3/4 yd to 7/8 yd on 45 inch fabric. These are planning estimates: the yardage on your pattern envelope always wins.
These yardage figures are planning estimates for a cushion cover, built from typical pattern cut sizes. They help you buy the right amount before you choose a pattern, or when shopping for a fabric you love. Once you have a pattern, its envelope yardage replaces anything here.
How much fabric for a 16 in form, envelope back cushion cover?
| Size | 45 in fabric | 60 in fabric | Meters (45 in) | Saved with 60 in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 in | 3/4 yd | 1/2 yd | 0.7 m | 33% |
How much fabric for a 18 in form, envelope back cushion cover?
| Size | 45 in fabric | 60 in fabric | Meters (45 in) | Saved with 60 in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 in | 3/4 yd | 5/8 yd | 0.7 m | 17% |
How much fabric for a 20 in form, envelope back cushion cover?
| Size | 45 in fabric | 60 in fabric | Meters (45 in) | Saved with 60 in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 in | 7/8 yd | 7/8 yd | 0.8 m | 0% |
Why does fabric width change cushion cover yardage?
Wider 60 inch fabric saves about 17 percent of the yardage for this cushion cover, because pattern pieces can sit side by side instead of one after another. Standard widths are 44 to 45 inches for quilting and apparel cottons and 58 to 60 inches for knits, linens and many garment fabrics. See the fabric width chart for usable widths.
- Front 17 x 17 in, two backs 17 x 12 in.
- Front 19 x 19 in, two backs 19 x 13 in.
- Front 21 x 21 in, two backs 21 x 14 in.
Pattern envelope first
These are estimates for planning and shopping. The yardage printed on your pattern accounts for its exact pieces, view and size, and it always wins.
Tools for cutting and sewing a cushion cover
Olfa 60mm Ergonomic Squeeze-Handle Rotary Cutter RTY-3/DX
$26.49A 60 mm rotary cutter slices long straight edges for curtains, tablecloths and cushions.
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Olfa 35 x 70 Continuous Grid Connecting Rotary Mat Set
$209.99A big cutting surface for full-width home decor panels.
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Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
$279.99A capable computerized machine with a wide table that handles home decor weights.
Check pricePrices change often, so confirm on Amazon. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
How much fabric do other home decor projects need?
| Project | Style | Size | 45 in | 60 in |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apron | Full bib apron | Adult | 1 1/2 yd | 1 yd |
| Tote Bag | Medium, about 15 x 16 in, exterior and straps | One size | 3/4 yd | 5/8 yd |
| Pillowcase | Standard (20 x 26 in pillow), cuffed | Standard | 1 1/8 yd | 1 1/8 yd |
| Duvet Cover | Twin, both sides (finished 68 x 88 in) | Twin | 10 1/4 yd | 10 1/4 yd |
| Curtain Panel | One panel, 63 in finished length | 63 in | 2 1/4 yd | 2 1/4 yd |
| Tablecloth | Rectangle 36 x 60 in table, 10 in drop | 4 seat | 4 5/8 yd | 2 3/8 yd |
| Placemats | Set of 4, 13 x 19 in, front and back same fabric | Set of 4 | 1 5/8 yd | 1 1/8 yd |
| Napkins | Set of 4, 18 in finished | Set of 4 | 1 1/8 yd | 1 1/8 yd |
| Christmas Stocking | One stocking, outer and cuff (about 18 in tall) | One | 3/4 yd | 5/8 yd |
Frequently asked questions
How much fabric do I need for a cushion cover?
For a 18 in form, envelope back cushion cover in size 18 in, plan about 3/4 yd of 45 inch fabric or 5/8 yd of 60 inch fabric. The tables on this page cover every size and variant in our chart. Pattern envelopes list exact yardage for each view and size, so use those figures when you have the pattern.
Does 60 inch fabric save money on a cushion cover?
Wider 60 inch fabric saves about 17 percent of the yardage for this cushion cover, because pattern pieces can sit side by side instead of one after another. Compare the price per yard: wide fabric often costs more per yard, so a small yardage saving can still cost more overall. Knits are usually 58 to 60 inches wide already.
Should I buy extra fabric for a cushion cover?
Yes, a little. Add about 10 percent, or at least 1/4 yard, for shrinkage when prewashing, straightening the grain and small cutting mistakes. Add more for plaids, stripes and large prints that need matching, and for napped fabrics like velvet and corduroy, where every piece must face the same direction.
How do I convert cushion cover yardage to meters?
Multiply yards by 0.9144. For example, 3/4 yd is about 0.7 m, and 7/8 yd is about 0.8 m. Many fabric shops outside the US sell by the meter, so round up to the next 10 centimeters when ordering.
What makes a cushion cover need more fabric?
Length, fullness and size matter most. Front 17 x 17 in, two backs 17 x 12 in. Sleeves, collars, facings, pockets and linings also add up quickly, and one-way prints can add a quarter yard or more.
How we research: we compare manufacturer specifications, owner manuals, published standards and recurring themes in verified owner reviews. We do not test products in person, and this is researched guidance, not professional advice. Follow your machine manual and pattern, and take care with rotary cutters, hot irons and needles. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.