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Total fabric = Backing + Binding
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Quilt backing is the fabric used on the back of a quilt, while binding is the fabric strip that wraps around the edges to finish the quilt. Proper calculation of these materials ensures you have enough fabric for your project.
The calculator determines how much fabric you need for both backing and binding based on your quilt dimensions and preferences.
Backing Calculation: The calculator adds your desired overhang to each side of the quilt dimensions, then determines how many fabric widths are needed to cover this area.
Binding Calculation: The calculator determines the perimeter of your quilt, adds extra for corners and joining, then calculates how many strips of your chosen binding width are needed.
Details: Having enough backing fabric ensures complete coverage of your quilt top, while proper binding calculation prevents running short during the finishing process.
Tips: Measure your quilt top accurately. Standard backing overhang is 4 inches per side. Standard fabric width is 42 inches (44-45 inches for quilting cotton). Binding width typically ranges from 2 to 2.5 inches.
Q1: Why add extra inches for backing?
A: The extra inches (overhang) ensure you have enough fabric for quilting and squaring up the finished quilt.
Q2: Can I use different fabric widths?
A: Yes, adjust the fabric width field if you're using wider backing fabric (like 108" wide backing).
Q3: Why add extra length for binding?
A: The extra 20 inches accounts for mitering corners and joining the ends of the binding strip.
Q4: Should I round up my results?
A: It's always safer to round up to the nearest 1/4 or 1/2 yard to ensure you have enough fabric.
Q5: What if my quilt is very large?
A: For large quilts, you may need to piece your backing. The calculator accounts for this by determining how many fabric widths are needed.