How Much Fabric for a Cushion Cover? Yardage by Size and Fabric Width
A cushion cover takes about 3/4 yd of 45 inch fabric, or 1/2 yd of 60 inch: that is the 16 in form version. Across the sizes charted here it runs 3/4 yd to 7/8 yd on 45 inch fabric. Add 10 percent for shrinkage, and let your pattern envelope overrule these estimates.
Fabric yardage is the length of fabric you buy off the bolt at a fixed width, which is why a cushion cover needs 3/4 yd of 45 inch fabric but only 1/2 yd of 60 inch. These figures are planning estimates 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. For your own measurements rather than a chart, the upholstery fabric calculator does the arithmetic, and the how to calculate fabric yardage guide shows the layout maths behind it.
How much fabric for a cushion cover: 16 in form, envelope back?
The 16 in form, envelope back version in size 16 in needs about 3/4 yd of 45 inch fabric; the table below gives every size we chart, in both widths and in meters.
| 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 cushion cover: 18 in form, envelope back?
The 18 in form, envelope back version in size 18 in needs about 3/4 yd of 45 inch fabric; the table below gives every size we chart, in both widths and in meters.
| 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 cushion cover: 20 in form, envelope back?
The 20 in form, envelope back version in size 20 in needs about 7/8 yd of 45 inch fabric; the table below gives every size we chart, in both widths and in meters.
| 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 33 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, and the fabric yardage chart if you want every project in this section on one page.
- 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.
What needle and thread should you use for a cushion cover?
A cushion cover is usually cut from upholstery weight fabric, which sews cleanly with a 100/16 needle and 30 wt thread. Fit a fresh needle at the start of the project: needles last about 6 to 8 hours of stitching, and a dull one puckers seams on exactly the kind of long straight runs this project is full of.
Tools for cutting and sewing a cushion cover
Olfa 60mm Ergonomic Squeeze-Handle Rotary Cutter RTY-3/DX
Under $50A 60 mm rotary cutter slices long straight edges for curtains, tablecloths and cushions.
Check price
Olfa 35 x 70 Continuous Grid Connecting Rotary Mat Set
Under $250A big cutting surface for full-width home decor panels.
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Brother CS7000X Computerized Sewing and Quilting Machine
Under $500A 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?
The 9 other home decor projects we chart run from 3/4 yd to 10 1/4 yd of 45 inch fabric in their first charted size. One bolt often covers two projects, so it is worth checking the yardage for a curtain panel before you cut.
| 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?
The 16 in form, envelope back version in size 16 in needs about 3/4 yd of 45 inch fabric or 1/2 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.
How do I calculate cushion cover yardage myself?
Work out the cut size of each piece, divide the usable fabric width (about 42 in on 45 inch fabric) by the piece width to see how many fit across, then multiply the number of rows by the piece length and divide by 36 to get yards. Add seam allowances and hems before you measure, which the seam allowance calculator does for you, then round up to the next quarter yard.
Does 60 inch fabric save money on a cushion cover?
Wider 60 inch fabric saves about 33 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.
Can I use 60 inch fabric when the pattern lists 45 inch?
Usually yes, and you will need roughly a quarter less. Multiply the 45 inch yardage by about 0.75 as a starting point, then lay the pattern pieces out before cutting, because long pieces such as a full length skirt or a curtain drop are limited by length rather than width and save nothing. Napped and one-way prints also have to face the same direction whatever the width.
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. The fabric yardage converter switches between yards, meters and inches for any width.
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.
