What this converter does
Fabric math mixes three systems: fractions of a yard in US patterns, decimals on calculators and receipts, and meters in European and Asian patterns. This converter accepts any of them and shows the same amount in every unit, plus the amount to ask for at the cutting counter.
Fractions of a yard
| Yards | Decimal | Inches | Centimeters |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1/8 | 0.125 | 4.5 | 11.4 |
| 1/4 | 0.250 | 9 | 22.9 |
| 3/8 | 0.375 | 13.5 | 34.3 |
| 1/2 | 0.500 | 18 | 45.7 |
| 5/8 | 0.625 | 22.5 | 57.1 |
| 3/4 | 0.750 | 27 | 68.6 |
| 7/8 | 0.875 | 31.5 | 80.0 |
| 1 | 1.000 | 36 | 91.4 |
The math
1 yard = 36 inches = 91.44 cm = 0.9144 m
1 meter = 39.37 inches ≈ 1.094 yards
Converting a pattern from meters? Patterns written in meters often assume 150 cm (59 inch) fabric. If you are buying 44 inch quilting cotton, the amount does not simply convert; you may need more length. Check the pattern's layout for your fabric width.
Questions people ask
How many inches are in a yard of fabric?
36 inches. A half yard is 18 inches, a quarter yard 9 inches and an eighth of a yard 4½ inches.
How many meters is a yard?
Exactly 0.9144 meters, so a meter is about 1.09 yards (39.37 inches). When converting a pattern from meters, round up so you are never short.
What is a fat quarter?
A quarter yard cut differently: a half yard cut in half along the fold, about 18 × 22 inches. It has the same area as a regular quarter yard (9 × 44) but is a more useful shape.
Why round up to 1/8 yard?
Most shops cut in 1/8 yard steps, so 1.3 yards is cut as 1 3/8. The converter shows the exact figure and the amount to buy.