Mastering the Art of Quilting: How to Calculate the Perfect Backing Size

Quilting is an ancient art that has been passed down through generations, with intricate designs and patterns woven into every stitch. One essential aspect of quilting that often goes unnoticed is the backing, which serves as the foundation for a beautiful and functional quilt. Whether you’re a seasoned quilter or just beginning your journey into the world of quilting, understanding how to accurately calculate the backing for your quilt is crucial. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about calculating backing for quilts, from choosing the right fabric to understanding measurements. So grab your tools and let’s get started on creating the perfect backing for your next quilt masterpiece!

Quilting is a timeless craft that has been passed down for generations. From creating cozy blankets to intricate wall hangings, quilts are not only functional but also works of art. One important aspect of quilting is knowing how to calculate backing for your quilt. The backing, or the fabric that goes on the back of the quilt, serves as the foundation and support for the quilt’s design and structure. In this guide, we will go through the steps on how to calculate backing for quilts, so you can create a beautiful and durable finished product.

The Importance of Calculating Backing for Quilts

Calculating the correct amount of backing fabric is crucial for creating a successful quilt. Not having enough fabric can lead to a patchwork of seams or even gaps on the back of your quilt, which can be unattractive and affect its structure. On the other hand, having too much fabric can result in unnecessary expenses and waste.

A well-measured backing contributes to an aesthetically pleasing finished product with a smooth and even surface. It also ensures that all layers of your quilt are properly secured and aligned during quilting. Moreover, properly sized backing fabric allows for enough excess fabric along the edges for attaching binding or finishing touches.

Tools Needed

Before diving into calculating backing measurements, gather all necessary tools you will need:

Ruler
Graph paper or graphing software
Pencil or pen
Calculator (if needed)
Fabric measuring tape
Scissors
Sewing machine or needle and thread

Measuring Your Quilt Top

The first step in calculating backing for your quilt is to measure your quilt top accurately. Lay out your quilt top on a flat surface and smooth out any wrinkles or bumps. Use a fabric measuring tape to measure the length and width of your quilt in inches. It is essential to measure from the center of the quilt rather than the edges, as this will give you a more accurate measurement.

Next, add 10-12 inches to each measurement. This will provide enough extra fabric for the edges and seam allowance. If your quilt has borders, be sure to include their measurements when adding extra inches.

For example, if your quilt measures 55 x 70 inches with a 3-inch border, add 10-12 inches to both measurements, resulting in a final measurement of approximately 65 x 80 inches.

Calculating Backing Fabric

Now that you have the final measurements for your quilt top, it’s time to calculate how much backing fabric you will need. The general rule of thumb is to add an extra 6-8 inches on each side of your quilt top’s measurements. However, this can vary depending on your design and quilting method.

To determine how many yards of fabric you will need, first divide each measurement by 36 (the number of inches in a yard). Then multiply that number by two and round up.

For example:

For a quilt measuring 65 x 80 inches, divide each number by 36 – resulting in approximately (1.81 x 2) = 3.62 yards.
Rounding up to the nearest whole number gives you four yards.
It’s always better to have slightly more fabric than less, so consider rounding up again just to be safe.

Fabric Width Considerations

When purchasing backing fabric, the fabric’s width is an important factor to consider. Depending on the size of your quilt, you may need to sew together multiple pieces of fabric to create a large enough backing.

Most quilt fabric comes in widths of 42 or 44 inches. To calculate how many pieces of fabric you will need, first divide the total yardage by the width of the fabric. If your quilt requires more than one piece, add them together and round up.

For example:

If your quilt requires four yards of fabric and you are using a standard 44-inch-wide fabric, divide 4 by 44 – resulting in (0.09 x 2) = approximately 0.18.
Rounding up gives you one piece of fabric measuring approximately 1 yard wide.
If two pieces are needed, add them together (2 x 0.18) = 0.36 yards or approximately another yard to purchase.

Accounting for Quilting and Shrinkage

When calculating backing, it’s essential to account for any quilting that may happen during the quilting process. If your design includes extensive quilting or is being quilted by hand

What is Backing for Quilts?

Backing for quilts refers to the bottom layer of fabric that serves as the foundation or backing for a quilt. It is typically made from a single piece of fabric, which is traditionally plain and solid in color. The backing plays an important role in the overall construction and durability of a quilt, as it provides support and stability to the layers of batting and pieced fabric on top. A well-crafted backing can also add visual interest and complement the design of the quilt top.

Why is Backing Important?

Backing is an essential element in creating a high-quality and long-lasting quilt. Not only does it provide structural integrity, but it also protects the batting from wear and tear. Without proper backing, a quilt can easily become distorted, causing puckering or bunching on the surface. This can be especially problematic for intricate or detailed quilting designs, as they rely on a smooth and flat surface to truly shine.

Additionally, backing also serves as a protective layer between the quilt and its intended use. Whether used as a decorative throw, bedspread, or wall hanging, quilts are often subjected to frequent handling and various environmental factors such as dust, sunlight, and moisture. A sturdy backing can help minimize any damage or fading that may occur over time.

How to Choose the Right Backing

When selecting a suitable backing for your quilt, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, you should determine the desired size of your finished quilt project. The width of your chosen fabric should be at least 4-6 inches wider than your pieced top on each side to allow for seam allowances.

Next, consider the type of batting you will be using. Thicker or loftier battings may require sturdier backings with a higher thread count to prevent shifting or uneven quilting. Alternatively, thinner battings may call for a lighter weight backing to avoid adding unnecessary bulk to the final product.

Finally, think about the intended use and aesthetic of your quilt. Fabrics with a tighter weave and higher thread count are more durable and will hold up better in high-traffic or frequently used quilts. If you want to add visual interest, consider using patterned or colored backings that coordinate with your quilt top.

Calculating Backing Measurements

To ensure an accurate and proportionate backing for your quilt, precise measurements are crucial. Here is a simple formula to follow:

Firstly, measure the length and width of your quilt top in inches. Add 8 inches to both measurements to account for overhang on all sides.

– Example: If your quilt top measures 60 inches by 80 inches, you should add 8 inches to each side, making your final measurement 68 inches by 88 inches.

Secondly, determine the width of the fabric you will be using for the backing. Usually, fabric comes in standard widths of 44 or 108 inches. For this example, we will be using a fabric with a width of 44 inches.

Thirdly, calculate how many lengths of fabric you will need by dividing the total length of your finished quilt by the width of your chosen fabric.

– Example: Using our previous measurements (68 inches by88 inches), we would come up with two lengths (68 ÷ 44 =1.54).

Finally, multiply that number by the desired number of seams you want running horizontally on your backing.

– Example: If we want one seam running horizontally across our backing (giving us two pieces at a finished size of68″ x44″ each), we would need two lengths multiplied byone seam (which gives us two)-or one purchase length(68″ x88″).

1. What is backing for a quilt?
Backing for a quilt is the fabric that goes on the back of a quilt, providing additional stability and protection. It is usually a solid piece of fabric that is larger than the quilt top.

2. Why is calculating backing important for quilting?
Calculating backing is important because it ensures that you have enough fabric to cover the entire quilt top. It also helps in determining the correct size and amount of fabric needed for the quilt’s back.

3. How do I measure my quilt to determine the required backing size?
To measure your quilt, lay it flat on a surface and use a measuring tape to determine its width and length. Add an extra 4-6 inches to each measurement for seam allowance and quilting space. This will give you the required backing size.

4. How much extra fabric should I add for seam allowance when calculating backing?
The general rule of thumb is to add an extra 4-6 inches on all sides for seam allowance when calculating backing. This will provide enough fabric to accommodate any shrinkage during quilting or when washing the finished quilt.

5. Do I need to calculate backing if I am using pre-cut fabrics?
Yes, it is still important to calculate backing even if you are using pre-cut fabrics. The dimensions of pre-cut fabrics may vary slightly, so it’s best to calculate to ensure you have enough fabric for the quilt’s back.

6. How can I save money when calculating backing for my quilts?
One way to save money when calculating backing is by piecing together smaller pieces of fabric instead of using one large piece. This can also create a unique design on the back of your quilt. You can also look out for sales or coupons at your local fabric store to save on larger pieces of fabric.

In conclusion, understanding how to calculate backing for quilts is an essential skill for any quilter. It not only ensures a successful and aesthetically pleasing finished quilt, but it also saves time and resources. Properly calculating the backing size and yardage needed can also prevent frustration and disappointment during the quilting process.

The first step in calculating backing is to measure the quilt top accurately and add a few inches for shrinkage and seam allowance. Then, determining the width of the fabric and its shrinkage percentage will help determine the number of panels needed for the backing. Adding at least six extra inches on all sides will allow for quilt top adjustments during the quilting process.

Additionally, understanding different fabric widths, seam allowances, directional prints, and pattern repeats are crucial factors to consider when choosing backing fabric. These factors can affect the overall appearance of the quilt and may require additional yardage.

Furthermore, it is important to take note of any piecing or borders on the quilt top that may impact the overall size of the backing. Adding these measurements into the calculations will ensure that enough fabric is purchased for a seamless backing.

Lastly, remaining organized throughout this process will make it easier to track fabric usage, seam allowance calculations, and pattern repetitions. This not only saves time but also

Author Profile

Jill Nammar

My name is Jill but everyone calls me Jilly. I design original cross stitch patterns inspired by vintage French and flowers. Roses are my muse.
I hope you have a cozy time stitching my patterns. Put the kettle on, relax and create a heartwarming piece of hand-embroidered art. Personalize your home and turn up the soulful charm with soulful stitchery.

My goal is to provide you with pretty patterns that promote peaceful stitching. My wish is for you to discover the gentle beauty of hand-embroidery.My patterns have been featured around the web and in Homespun Magazine and Boston Magazine. I find my bliss in cross stitch.

From 2024, I have embarked on a new venture—writing an informative blog on the “Embroidery and Cross-Stitch” niche. This blog is an extension of my passion, where I share detailed posts and respond to queries related to embroidery and cross-stitching.

The blog covers a wide range of topics from beginner tips, pattern creation, historical insights, and the therapeutic benefits of stitching. My goal is to build a community where enthusiasts can learn, share, and grow in their embroidery skills, ensuring everyone can find their own bliss in cross-stitch just as I did.

Thank you to all my customers and readers who have supported Sew French. Your kind emails, photos of completed patterns, and continual encouragement fuel my dedication to this beautiful craft. Join me in stitching a world of beauty and peace, one pattern at a time.