What is a fat quarter?
A fat quarter is a quarter yard of fabric cut widthwise, typically 18" × 21" for 44" wide fabric.
Free quilting calculator
Fat Quarter Calculator
Fat quarters are popular in quilting for their versatility. This calculator helps you plan how many pieces fit in a fat quarter and how many you need.
Result
Fat Quarter estimate
Need 4 fat quarters for 48 pieces.
- Piece size
- 5" × 5"
- Fat quarter size
- 18" × 21"
- Pieces across
- 3
- Pieces down
- 4
- Pieces per fat quarter
- 12
- Fat quarters needed
- 4
- Equivalent yardage
- 1 yards
A standard fat quarter is 18" × 21" for 44" wide fabric. Four fat quarters make approximately one yard.
Formula
Fat quarter usable area ≈ 18" × 21" (half yard cut widthwise). Pieces per fat quarter = (usable width ÷ cut width) × (usable length ÷ cut length).
Example calculation
From a standard fat quarter, you can cut about sixteen 4.5 inch squares or twelve 5 inch squares.
Results are planning estimates. Always round up when buying fabric, especially for directional prints, shrinkage, fussy cutting, or cutting mistakes.
Related calculators
Fabric Yardage CalculatorEstimate fabric yardage from piece size, fabric width, quantity, seam allowance, and project type.Jelly Roll Quilt CalculatorEstimate how many jelly roll strips you need for common quilt sizes and simple strip quilt layouts.Fabric Cost CalculatorCalculate the total cost of quilting fabric by entering yardage, price per yard, and quantity. Plan your quilt budget before shopping.
Frequently asked questions
How many fat quarters make a yard?
Four fat quarters make approximately one yard of fabric.
Can I cut strips from fat quarters?
Yes. Fat quarters are great for cutting smaller strips and squares for scrap quilts.
Does this include seam allowance?
Enter your cut size including seam allowance. The calculator estimates how many fit.