Does this work for the no-waste flying geese method?
This uses individual sky squares and geese rectangles. The no-waste method (four geese at once) uses different measurements.
Free quilting calculator
Flying Geese Calculator
Flying geese are a classic quilt block. This calculator estimates the cut sizes for sky squares and geese rectangles, plus the fabric yardage needed.
Result
Flying Geese cutting estimate
Need 48 sky squares and 24 geese rectangles for 24 finished flying geese units.
- Finished geese size
- 4" × 2"
- Sky square cut size
- 2.5"
- Sky squares needed
- 48
- Geese rectangle cut size
- 4.5" × 2.5"
- Geese rectangles needed
- 24
- Sky fabric yardage
- 0.25 yards
- Geese fabric yardage
- 0.25 yards
This uses the regular corner-triangle (one-at-a-time) method: cut one goose rectangle and two sky squares, mark diagonals, sew, trim, and press. The no-waste four-at-a-time method uses different measurements.
Formula
Sky square cut size = finished height + 0.5 inches. Geese rectangle = (finished width + 0.5) × (finished height + 0.5) inches.
Example calculation
For a 4 inch x 2 inch finished geese unit, cut sky squares at 2.5 inches and geese rectangles at 4.5 x 2.5 inches.
Results are planning estimates. Always round up when buying fabric, especially for directional prints, shrinkage, fussy cutting, or cutting mistakes.
Related calculators
Half-Square Triangle CalculatorCalculate HST cutting sizes and yardage for the two-at-a-time method or traditional method. Enter finished size and block count.Quilt Block CalculatorCalculate how many quilt blocks you need based on finished quilt size, block size, sashing, and borders.Fabric Yardage CalculatorEstimate fabric yardage from piece size, fabric width, quantity, seam allowance, and project type.
Frequently asked questions
How many sky squares per geese unit?
Two sky squares are needed for each finished flying geese unit.
What seam allowance is used?
A standard 1/4 inch seam allowance is included in the cut size formulas.
Can I make oversized geese for trimming?
Yes. Some quilters cut slightly larger and trim for accuracy. Adjust the finished size accordingly.