Use finished dimensions consistently
Enter the finished dimensions of the quilt centre, excluding its outside seam allowances. This calculator adds the selected seam allowance to the border cuts. If measuring an unfinished top from raw edge to raw edge, subtract two seam allowances to obtain the finished dimension used here.
One border, sides first
For a 48 × 60-inch finished centre and a 4-inch finished border with ¼-inch seams, cut strips 4½ inches wide. The two side pieces are 60½ inches long. After sides are attached, the two top and bottom pieces are 56½ inches long. The finished quilt is 56 × 68 inches.
How yardage is estimated
The four pieces total 234 inches. This tool assumes you join width-of-fabric strips with straight seams into one long strip, then cut those pieces. Six 42-inch strips joined with five seams lose 2½ inches and provide 249½ inches. Six strips at 4½ inches consume 27 inches, or 0.75 yard.
Read the limitations before cutting
This calculation allows piecing and straight joins. It is not a continuous-print, mitred-corner, diagonal-join or unpieced border plan. It does not add shrinkage, pattern repeats or squaring waste. Measure your actual top and check opposing edges before attaching borders; a formula cannot correct an out-of-square quilt.
Questions, answered
Can I use diagonal joins?
Not with this yardage model. Diagonal joins consume a different amount of strip length; calculate that allowance separately.
Can I add two borders?
Calculate the first border, then use its finished width and length as the centre for the next border.