Does this include mitered borders?
No. Mitered borders usually need extra length and more careful cutting.
Free quilting calculator
Quilt Border Calculator
Plan simple quilt borders by estimating strip count and fabric yardage. This first version is designed for straight borders cut across the width of fabric.
Result
Border estimate
Cut 7 border strips and buy about 0.875 yards.
- Top and bottom strip length
- 68"
- Side strip length
- 72"
- Total border length
- 280"
- Estimated yardage
- 0.875 yards
For mitered borders, directional prints, or multiple borders, add extra yardage.
Formula
Total border length = two top/bottom strips + two side strips. Strip count = total border length ÷ WOF. Yardage = strip count × border width ÷ 36.
Example calculation
For a 60" × 72" quilt with a 4" border, the calculator estimates the length of top, bottom, and side strips and rounds up fabric yardage.
Results are planning estimates. Always round up when buying fabric, especially for directional prints, shrinkage, fussy cutting, or cutting mistakes.
Related calculators
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.Quilt Binding CalculatorFind the binding length, number of WOF strips, and fabric yardage needed for your quilt binding.
Frequently asked questions
Should I cut borders lengthwise or crosswise?
This calculator estimates crosswise WOF strips. Lengthwise borders need a different yardage approach.
Does border width include seam allowance?
Enter the cut border width you plan to use. Finished width will be smaller after seams.
Should I add extra fabric?
Yes, especially if you need to match prints or cut directional fabric.